The ecology of the de Brazza's monkey Cercopithecus Neglectus schlegel in Kisere forest, Kenya
Abstract
Theecologyof the endangered de Brazza's monkey Cercopithecus neglectus
was investigated in the Kisere Forest Reserve between December
1987and March 1989. The total number of contact hours \'VaS S28. A total
of 43 monkeys were counted which comprised of three troops and three
solitaryadult males. Troops numbered 11, 13 and 16 monkeys. All troops
hada singleresident adult male, at least three adult females and juveniles,
thus they had a polygynous social organization. The sex ratio deviated from
unity and five births occurred betwen January 1988 and March 1989.
Homeranges varied between 4.1 to 6 na, densities were high and
floodedareas of the forest were heavily used. This species was only found
near rivers, spent more than SO% of the time below S meters and preferred
sheltered areas for sleeping sites. The daily path length ranged from
330-100I meters. Feeding peaks occurred around midday. The de Brazza's
weremainly frugivorous but leaves and invertebrates formed a substantial
part of the diet. Slowmoving invertebrates were preferred. Feeding on ",
variousfood items had a diurnal pattern. All behaviour categories reported
for allother congenerics were observed. Polyspecific associations were
absent.
Citation
M.Sc (Biology of conservation)Sponsorhip
University of NairobiPublisher
Facult of Science, University of Nairobi
Description
Master of Science Thesis