Allen's swamp monkey

Although still hunted for its meat, Allen's swamp monkey is increasingly seen as a household pet. (Photo taken in Basankusu, 2007)

Allen's swamp monkey
Allen's swamp monkey (Allenopithecus nigroviridis) is a primate species categorized in its own genus Allenopithecus in the Old World monkey family. Systematically, it is a sister clade to the guenons, but differs in dentition and habits.

Allen’s swamp monkeys “go fishing” by placing leaves or grass on top of the water and grabbing fish that come to hide underneath. As their name implies, swamp monkeys live near water and are good swimmers. They have been known to dive into the water to escape predators. Allen's swamp monkeys have a sturdy build and gray/green skin. The face is reddish with long hair bundles at the cheeks.

This monkey likes company! The average group size is around 40 individuals. These large groups are divided into sub-groups of two to six monkeys that work together foraging for food. The groups' sleeping sites are usually located near water and become regular spots and repeatedly used. Individuals groom each other to remove dead skin and parasites. This kind of behavior reinforces bonds between two individuals.

Allen's swamp monkeys make a grunting sound that is used to maintain contact between members of the group.



Source: http://kids.sandiegozoo.org/animals/mammals/allens-swamp-monkey