Habitat:
Savannas, semi-arid regions, open forests

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

Identification and description:
The patas monkey, or Erythrocebus patas, is an African primate known for its exceptional speed, reaching up to 55 km/h, making it the fastest monkey in the world. It has distinctive reddish fur, a black face, and long, slender limbs adapted for running. Males are significantly larger than females. They primarily inhabit the savannas and semi-arid regions of West and East Africa. Their diet is omnivorous, consisting of fruits, seeds, insects, and small animals. Patas monkeys are diurnal and spend most of their time on the ground, although they can climb trees to feed or rest.

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

Photography tips:
To photograph the patas monkey, it is advisable to use a telephoto lens of at least 400mm to capture detailed images from a distance. These monkeys are fast and suspicious, so discretion is essential. Favor early morning or late afternoon hours to benefit from soft light and avoid harsh shadows. Be patient and observe their behavior to anticipate their movements. A tripod can be useful to stabilize your camera and achieve sharp images.