Theropithecus gelada

(Rüppell, 1835)

Vernacular names
English : Gelada
French : Gélada

Classification
Class : Mammalia
Order : Primata
Family : Cercopithecidae
Notes : 2 subspecies known.

Identification
Body length up to 75 cm, tail length to 50 cm for a weight up to 30 kilos. Males are much bigger and heavier. Unmistakable with its very long and thick brown fur. Naked black face. Males have silvery breast with a patch of naked red skin.

Range and habitat
The species is endemic to Ethiopia and occurs near Lake Tana, in north-east part of the country. Lives in grasslands, scrublands and woodlands in high montane areas, to 4400 m.

Conservation
IUCN RED LIST : LEAST CONCERN
CITES : Appendix II
Status : The species’ populations have experienced important declines in the past due to hunting. Main threat is now destruction of their habitat.
Ex-Situ Programs : EEP in Europe

Observation

 

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