One of Central Africa’s most distinctive and lesser-known guenons, found only in a small region of Cameroon, Nigeria, and Equatorial Guinea. Because of its restricted range and reliance on undisturbed forests, it is considered endangered, making it one of the rarest monkeys in the guenon family. Preuss’s monkey inhabits montane and sub-montane forests, especially the highlands of western Cameroon, including areas around Mount Cameroon and the Bamenda Highlands. Its preference for rugged, steep forest terrain and its naturally shy behavior make it a species that few people ever see in the wild.

Visually, Preuss’s monkey is a striking and elegant primate. It has a dark, almost black face framed with lighter fur on the cheeks and throat, giving it a dramatic and expressive appearance. Its body is covered with dense, dark brown to blackish fur, while the limbs may appear slightly lighter depending on the individual and region. The tail is long, slender, and often darker than the body, helping the monkey maintain balance while navigating high branches and mossy slopes. Compared to other guenons known for bright colors or bold facial patterns, Preuss’s monkey has a more subtle but regal look—its beauty comes from sleek contrasts and smooth coloration rather than dramatic markings.

This species is highly arboreal, spending most of its life in the canopy and rarely coming to the ground. Its movements are quick and sure-footed, especially in the highland forests where moss-covered branches, lianas, and steep slopes create challenging terrain. Preuss’s monkeys are known to be cautious and elusive, disappearing quickly when disturbed.

Diet-wise, the Preuss’s monkey is a fruit-dominant omnivore, feeding on berries, figs, seeds, young leaves, buds, and insects. In some areas, they also forage for mushrooms and other forest floor resources. Like other guenons, they possess cheek pouches that allow them to quickly gather food and eat it in safer locations.

Distribution

Country

Population est.

Status

Year

Comments

Cameroon

2018

Equatorial Guinea

2018

Bioko

Nigeria

2018