The best-known member of the potto genus, a slow-moving, nocturnal primate that lives in the dense forests of West and Central Africa, from Guinea and Sierra Leone eastward toward Nigeria and Cameroon. It is the species that gave the whole group its name, and for many people, it is the quintessential example of a primate that survives not by speed or numbers, but through stealth, strength, and silence.

In appearance, the West African potto is compact and sturdy, with thick, woolly fur that ranges from gray-brown to reddish, perfectly suited for blending into the bark and shadows of the forest. Its face is round, with a broad muzzle, large forward-facing eyes that shine in the dark, and small, rounded ears often hidden by fur. Its hands and feet are highly specialized for gripping: opposable thumbs, long toes, and strong tendons allow it to cling tightly to branches for hours without tiring. Unlike monkeys, it has a very short tail and moves slowly and deliberately through the canopy.

One of the most extraordinary features of the west african potto is its built-in armor. The vertebrae of its neck form sharp bony spines that are covered with thickened skin and fur. When threatened, the potto tucks its head down and presents its neck to a predator, using those spines like natural spikes. A jab from these can be painful and startling, making the potto far more dangerous than its gentle looks suggest.

Diet-wise, the west african potto is an omnivore. It eats fruits, nectar, tree gums, and insects, occasionally catching small vertebrates like lizards or nestlings. Its deliberate movements let it sneak up on insects, while its strong grip allows it to stretch and hang into awkward positions to reach food.

Distribution

Country

Population est.

Status

Year

Comments

Benin

2020

Côte D’ivoire

2020

Gambia

2020

Possibly Extant

Ghana

2020

Guinea-Bissau

2020

Possibly Extant

Guinea

2020

Liberia

2020

Nigeria

2020

Senegal

2020

Sierra Leone

2020

Togo

2020