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.
Ursine Colobus
Scientific name: Colobus vellerosus

IUCN Status: Vulnerable
Family: CERCOPITHECIDAE
Group: Mammals
Shyness: Shy
Safe distance: 10 m
Breeding season / Courtship: 01.04–30.06
Gestation: 159–178 jours
Births: N/A
Habitat:
Tropical forests, wooded savannas, gallery forests
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:
>=400mm
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.
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