A long-tailed relative of the baboons, mangabeys live in mixed groups on the forest floor.

Subspecies
Several variants, but none given subspecies status.

Statistics
66cm long, plus a long tail. Females weigh 6.2kg, males 11kg.

Physical description
A medium-sized monkey with a long tail, a medium-length greyish coat and large incisors. Individuals in Ghana have a white collar and those in Cameroon a red cap.

Distribution
Senegal to Gabon.

Habitat
Primary rainforest.

Diet
Palm nuts, seeds, fruit and leaves.

Behaviour
Mangabeys live in large groups with several adult males on the forest floor, where they defend a territory.

Reproduction
Breeding takes place at any time of year, with a single youngster being born after about 6 months, fully furred and with its eyes open. The mother gives birth wherever she happens to be, and birth is usually at night. She eats the placenta and licks the baby clean as it clings to her belly. Other females in the group show great interest and try to hold new infants. Nursing becomes less frequent after the first few months, but continues until the next birth, usually after 2 years.

Conservation status
Lower risk.

Voice
Mangabeys are very vocal, with both males and females making a loud chorus. Males also have a startling long-distance call.