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.