Zanzibar / Kirk’s Red Colobus Monkey
You've heard of Zanzibar Island, also known as a “spice island,” a short distance from the coast of Tanzania. Aside from spices and beautiful beaches, did you know that Zanzibar is also home to a rare species of monkey?
The Zanzibar Red Colobus Monkey, also known as the Kirk's Red Colobus Monkey, is a species of less than 6,000 individuals that live on Zanzibar's main island and a couple of secondary islands in the archipelago.
Zanzibar Red Colobus Monkey eating a leaf
This species of monkey is vegetarian, and they spend most of their lives in trees and thick tree canopy areas. They're active during daylight hours.
Red Colobus Monkey foraging for food
Very little is actually known about the lifespan of these unusual monkeys. They are under threat of survival from deforestation. They have a couple of predators, including chimpanzees and hawks. Their full adult weight is under 25 pounds (12 kg).
Mature Red Colobus Monkey Once they reach adulthood, in about 4 years, the monkeys achieve their trademark reddish-brown coloring. Juveniles and young monkeys are black and white in color. Next time you think about visiting Zanzibar Island, let me know; I'm happy to help you get the most out of the experience and to see these beautiful creatures!
Until next week,
Marisa
