Angola (Black And White) Colobus

The Angola colobus, also known as the Angolan black-and-white colobus, is a captivating primate from the Colobus genus. There are six subspecies, each with distinctive characteristics: Sclater's Angola colobus, Powell-Cotton's Angola colobus, Ruwenzori colobus, Cordier's Angola colobus, Prigogine's Angola colobus, and Peters' Angola colobus. Those inhabiting mountainous regions typically have longer, thicker fur, which serves as a valuable adaptation to the colder climates.

Physically, Angola colobus monkeys are quite striking. They exhibit black fur and faces, with white hair framing their faces and draping over their shoulders. Their tails are long and slender, with white tips. Males are generally larger than females, measuring between 50 to 70 cm in body length, with tails approximately 75 cm long, and weighing between 9 to 20 kg.

These monkeys inhabit the dense rainforests of the Congo Basin, coastal mountains, and regions of Burundi, Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, and some isolated mountain areas. Despite their name, sightings of Angola colobus monkeys in Angola itself are actually rare. They can even be found at elevations up to 2,415 meters above sea level in Kenya.

Diet-wise, Angola colobus monkeys primarily feed on leaves, fruits, and seeds. Notably, some populations in East Tanzania have a particular preference for ripe fruit and mature leaves. This varied diet supports their survival across diverse habitats.