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.
Patas monkey
Scientific name: Erythrocebus patas

IUCN Status: Least Concern
Family: CERCOPITHECIDAE
Group: Mammals
Shyness: Suspicious
Safe distance: 10 m
Breeding season / Courtship: 01.12-31.01
Gestation: 167 jours
Births: 01.05-31.06
Habitat:
Savannas, semi-arid regions, open forests
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:
>=400mm
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.
Ready to take action?
Choose your platform and start your free trial today