PATAS MONKEY

The 'Patas Monkey' (''Erythrocebus patas'') is a ground-dwelling monkey distributed over West Africa, and into East Africa. It is the only species classified in the genus '''Erythrocebus'''. Patas monkeys avoid dense woodlands and live in more open savanna and semi-deserts. The Patas Monkey grows to 85 cm in length, excluding the tail, which measures 75 cm. Reaching speeds of 50 km/h, it is the fastest runner among the primates.
This monkey lives in groups of about twelve individuals. There is a loose matrilineal dominance rank. The group contains just one adult male. Once juvenile males reach sexual maturity (around the age of 4 years old) they leave the group, sometimes forming all male groups. The monkeys feed on insects, seeds, and tubers.
There are two subspecies: the western ''Erythrocebus patas patas'' (Common Patas) and the eastern ''Erythrocebus patas pyrrhonotus'' (Nisnas). The Nisnas has a white nose, while the nose of the Common Patas Monkey is black.

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★ Primate Info Net ''Erythrocebus'' Factsheets