Colobus facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Colobus |
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| Mantled guereza (Colobus guereza) | |
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Colobus
Illiger, 1811
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Colobus satanas |
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Black-and-white colobuses are a type of monkey found in Africa. They are known for their striking black and white fur. These monkeys are also called "colobi." The name "colobus" comes from a Greek word meaning "docked." This is because these monkeys have a very short thumb, almost like a stump!
Colobus monkeys are a kind of Old World monkey. They are closely related to the brown colobus monkeys.
Contents
What do Colobus Monkeys Eat?
Colobus monkeys are herbivores. This means they only eat plants. Their diet includes leaves, fruits, flowers, and small branches.
They have a special digestive system, much like a cow's. This helps them digest tough leaves. Because of this, they can live in places where other monkeys might not find enough food.
Where do Colobus Monkeys Live?
These monkeys live in various places across Africa. You can find them in different types of forests. They also live in wooded grasslands. They are often found in forests where some trees have been cut down.
Colobus Family Life
Colobus monkeys live in groups. Each group usually has about nine monkeys. These groups are often led by a single male. He lives with several females and their young.
When a baby colobus is born, it is completely white. Other female monkeys in the group often help care for the infant. This is even if they are not the baby's mother.
Why are Colobus Monkeys Important?
Colobus monkeys play an important role in their environment. When they eat, they can be a bit messy! This helps to spread seeds around the forest. Their digestive system also helps to spread seeds. This helps new plants grow.
Threats to Colobus Monkeys
Colobus monkeys face several dangers. Many forest animals hunt them for food. People also hunt them. Their homes are also threatened. This happens when forests are cut down for wood or to make space for farms.
Images for kids
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A group of Angolan colobus monkeys.
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An Angolan black-and-white colobus with its baby.
See also
In Spanish: Colobos para niños
