Red Colobus Monkey
Piliocolobus kirkii
Zanzibar's rarest primate — an endangered endemic found only on one island
Habitat
Tropical forests, mangroves, and coastal scrub on Zanzibar island
Diet
Leaves, unripe fruits, seeds, and flowers
Lifespan
20–25 years
Weight
5–12 kg
About the Red Colobus Monkey
The Zanzibar red colobus (Kirk's red colobus) is an endangered primate found only on the island of Unguja in the Zanzibar archipelago. With fewer than 5,800 individuals remaining, it is one of Africa's most threatened primates. Their striking rust-red back, black shoulders, and pale face make them unmistakable. Unlike most monkeys, red colobus have a complex, multi-chambered stomach for digesting leaves — similar to a cow. Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park protects the largest population and offers easy viewing of habituated troops.
Habitat & Diet
Habitat
Tropical forests, mangroves, and coastal scrub on Zanzibar island
Diet
Leaves, unripe fruits, seeds, and flowers — a specialised folivore
Lifespan
20–25 years
Weight
5–12 kg
Best Viewing Locations
- Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park (Zanzibar)
Fascinating Facts About Red Colobus Monkey
Found only on Zanzibar's main island — nowhere else on Earth
They have a multi-chambered stomach like a cow for digesting tough leaves
Local Zanzibaris call them "poison monkeys" because of their pungent smell
Troops can number 30–50 individuals led by multiple adult males
They are one of the rarest primates in Africa with fewer than 5,800 remaining
Safari Packages to See Red Colobus Monkey
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