Habitat:
Tropical forests, wooded savannas, gallery forests

Activity period :
Primarily active during the day, with peak activity in the morning and late afternoon.

Identification and description:
The Ursine Colobus, or Colobus vellerosus, is a medium-sized arboreal primate primarily found in West Africa. Its coat is predominantly black with distinctive white tufts around the face and shoulders, giving it an elegant appearance. It lives in social groups composed of several females and one or two dominant males. These monkeys are mainly folivorous, feeding on leaves, fruits, and flowers. They play a crucial role in seed dispersal, contributing to forest health. Although they are agile in trees, they rarely descend to the ground. Their habitat is threatened by deforestation and hunting, leading to a decline in their population.

Recommended lens:
400 mm – adjust based on distance, desired framing (portrait or habitat), and approach conditions.

Photography tips:
To photograph the Ursine Colobus, it is advisable to use a telephoto lens of at least 400mm to capture detailed images from a distance. Given their shy nature, it is important to remain discreet and blend into the environment to avoid startling them. The best photo opportunities occur early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the natural light is soft and flattering. Focus on capturing their social behavior or agility in the trees.