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.
Mona Monkey
Scientific name: Cercopithecus mona

IUCN Status: Least Concern
Family: CERCOPITHECIDAE
Group: Mammals
Shyness: Suspicious
Safe distance: 10 m
Breeding season / Courtship: N/A
Gestation: 5–6 mois
Births: N/A
Habitat:
Tropical forests, wooded savannas
Description:
The Mona monkey, or Cercopithecus mona, is a medium-sized primate native to the tropical forests of West Africa. It is characterized by its golden-brown fur, white face, and long tail. Mona monkeys live in social groups and are known for their agility and ability to move quickly through the canopy. They primarily feed on fruits, but their diet also includes leaves, flowers, and insects. These monkeys are diurnal and spend most of their time foraging and socializing. Although generally wary of humans, they can become accustomed to their presence in protected areas.
Recommended lens:
>=400mm
Photography tips:
To photograph the Mona monkey, it is advisable to use a telephoto lens of at least 400mm to capture detailed images without disturbing the animal. The tropical forests they inhabit can be dark, so adjust your ISO to compensate for the lack of light. Be patient and wait for the monkey to become comfortable with your presence. The best light is often found early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Try to capture moments of natural behavior, such as feeding or social interaction, for more dynamic and interesting images.
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