Observe and photograph a species in its natural habitat
Learn where and when to observe a species in the wild, how to recognize it in the field, and what habitats it lives in. Get photography tips adapted to its behavior and capture stunning images without disturbing the animal. For full details, open the complete profile in the WildlifePhotographer app.
Guereza colobus
Scientific name: Colobus guereza

IUCN Status: Least Concern
Family: CERCOPITHECIDAE
Group: Birds
Shyness: Suspicious
Safe distance: 20 m
Breeding season / Courtship: 01.06-31.08
Gestation: 6 à 7 mois
Births: 01.10-31.12
Habitat:
Tropical and subtropical forests, mainly in East Africa (Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania), in woodlands and mountain forests
Description:
The Guereza Colobus is a large primate belonging to the family Cercopithecidae, easily recognized by its distinctive black and white fur. It has a white mane around its face, white limbs, and a long, bushy tail that helps it stabilize in the trees. Its black body is contrasted by tufts of white fur along the sides and back, making it one of the most elegant primates of the forest. It primarily lives in the tropical and subtropical forests of East Africa, spending most of its time in the trees.
The Guereza Colobus is primarily herbivorous, feeding on leaves, fruits, seeds, and flowers. With its specialized stomach, it can digest tough, fibrous leaves that other animals cannot consume. It lives in social groups led by a dominant male and is generally very calm, moving gracefully and agilely through the forest canopy. Although its population remains stable in some protected areas, it faces threats due to deforestation and hunting, causing some populations to be classified as vulnerable.
Recommended lens:
>=200 mm
Photography tips:
To photograph the Guereza colobus, a telephoto lens is essential to capture its movements in the trees and its social behavior. Dusk or early morning offers ideal soft light. Be patient and discreet, as these monkeys can be very sensitive to human disturbance, especially when in groups.
Ready to take action?
Choose your platform and start your free trial today