Compared to its close relative, the grey-cheeked mangabey, the Uganda mangabey possesses a more diminutive stature, with a smaller face and skull. Its fur varies slightly depending on the geographical region, with individuals in the eastern part of Uganda sporting yellowish-brown fur while those in the west showcase slightly darker greyish-brown fur. Additionally, their breast and mane exhibit a distinctive pale chocolate-brown hue, adding to their aesthetic appeal.

Arboreal by nature, Uganda mangabeys are primarily arboreal, spending the majority of their time traversing the upper canopy of the forest. This arboreal lifestyle allows them to efficiently navigate their forest habitat while foraging for food and evading potential predators. Their diet primarily consists of fruits and seeds, with a preference for certain species such as false nutmeg fruit, breadfruit, date palm, and oil palm. These dietary preferences are crucial for their survival and contribute to the maintenance of forest ecosystems through seed dispersal and regeneration.

One of the key habitats supporting a significant population of Uganda mangabeys is the Mabira Central Forest Reserve, a biodiverse ecosystem teeming with life. However, this vital habitat has faced numerous threats in recent years, including illegal logging and agricultural encroachment. The conversion of forested areas into agricultural lands not only fragments the mangabey’s habitat but also disrupts their natural behavior and reduces their access to essential food resources. Conservation efforts aimed at protecting and restoring these habitats are therefore critical for the long-term survival of Uganda mangabeys and other wildlife species dependent on forest ecosystems.

In addition to habitat loss, Uganda mangabeys also face other anthropogenic pressures, including poaching and hunting for bushmeat. Despite legal protections, these primates are still targeted by hunters for their meat, posing a significant threat to their populations.

Distribution

Country

Population est.

Status

Year

Comments

Burundi

2017

Cameroon

2017

Central Af. Rep.

2017

Congo-Brazzaville

2017

DR Congo (Kinshasa)

2017

Equatorial Guinea

2017

Gabon

2017

Nigeria

2017

Presence Uncertain

Rwanda

2017

Tanzania

2017

Uganda

2017