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Swamp Monkey

ALLENOPITHECUS NIGROVIRIDIS

Quick Facts

Scientific name: Allenopithecus nigroviridis
Class: Mammal
Weight: 7 to 13 pounds
Life span: 23 years
Number of offspring: One young at a time
Conservation status: Near threatened

About

I live in Central Africa

Swamp monkeys are native to central Africa and can be found in forests and near bodies of water in Cameroon, Congo, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.


I am an Omnivore

Swamp monkeys eat a variety of fruits, seeds, and leaves along with shrimp, snails, and small invertebrates.


Swamp monkeys are social

Swamp monkeys are social primates who tend to live in groups of 40 or more individuals! Within the group, they practice social grooming, which is seen as an act to strengthen bonds between individuals.


I like to chat with others

Swamp monkeys have special vocalizations that range from deep grunts to chirp-like sounds.


Helping Swamp monkeys in the wild 

To help protect swamp monkeys in the wild, the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo supports the Pan African Sanctuary Alliance. Since 2000, PASA has been protecting Africa’s primates from illegal pet trade, empowering local communities, and preserving habitats.


I am important to my ecosystem

Because of their heavy diet of fruits, seeds, and leaves, swamp monkeys are excellent in aiding seed dispersal across the forest floors.


Conservation

Learn more about our efforts, our conservation partners around the world, and the simple steps you can take to contribute.

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