Lesula facts for kids
The lesula (scientific name: Cercopithecus lomamiensis) is a fascinating type of monkey that was first discovered in 2007. Scientists officially recognized it as a brand new species in 2012. You can find this unique monkey living in the dense forests of the northeastern Democratic Republic of the Congo in Central Africa.
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What Does a Lesula Look Like?
The lesula is a medium-sized monkey. It has a striking appearance with a patch of golden fur on its back. Its face is mostly bare, with a pale, almost human-like skin tone around its eyes and nose.
It also has a long, dark tail. The lesula's fur is mostly dark brown or black. This helps it blend in with the shadows of the forest. Males are usually larger than females.
Where Do Lesulas Live?
Lesulas live in the Lomami River basin. This area is found in the central part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. They prefer to live in lowland rainforests.
These monkeys spend most of their time in the trees. They move through the forest canopy looking for food. Their habitat is quite remote. This is one reason why they were discovered so recently.
What Do Lesulas Eat?
Lesulas are primarily herbivores. This means they mainly eat plants. Their diet includes a variety of fruits, leaves, and flowers. They also eat some insects.
They forage for food throughout the day. Their diet helps them get all the energy they need. It also helps spread seeds in the forest. This supports the growth of new plants.
How Was the Lesula Discovered?
The lesula was first found by chance in 2007. A team of researchers was exploring the Lomami forest. They saw a young monkey that looked different from any known species. It was being kept as a pet in a village.
This discovery led to more research. Scientists then spent years studying these monkeys in the wild. They looked at their unique features and behaviors. In 2012, they confirmed it was a new species. This was a very exciting moment for science. It showed that there are still new animals to discover.
Protecting the Lesula
The lesula faces several threats in its natural habitat. One major threat is deforestation. This is when forests are cut down for farming or logging. Another big problem is hunting. People sometimes hunt these monkeys for food.
Because of these threats, the lesula is considered a vulnerable species. This means it could become endangered if its habitat is not protected. Conservation efforts are underway to help save these monkeys. These efforts include creating protected areas. They also work to educate local communities about the importance of wildlife.
See also
In Spanish: Lesula para niños