Red Colobus Monkey

Scientists thought they saw they last of the Red Colobus Monkey in the 1970's, the last time it was ever reported being observed by researchers. Recently however, forty years after it was feared to have been extinct, two independent researchers were able to track it down in the Republic of Congo's
Ntokou-Pikounda National Park.

Taken by Lieven Devreese for National Geographic

The red colobus was first described in 1887, little is known about the monkey, and it is listed as Critically Endangered. Locals of course knew of the Monkey's existence and were able to guide researchers to the most likely observing spots. The difficult terrain that the monkeys call home is perhaps their best defense against predators. While it deters scientists from studying them, in a world where there are so few mysteries left, that seems appropriate.

The photo, taken by Lieven Devreese, one of the Researchers to rediscover the monkey, depicts a mother and baby Red Colobus. Non human primates are fascinating creatures. They come in all shapes and sizes with varying levels of intelligence. When looking into the eyes of many monkeys and apes it is clear that they see and recognize individuals. Their eyes show their mental capacity.

Photo taken by Isabella Talbott at Jungle Friends Primate Sanctuary in Gainsville, Fl

Max, a Weeper Capuchin and lovable former pet made his permanent home at Jungle Friends Primate Sanctuary in Gainsville, Fl. I had the rare and amazing opportunity to intern with these amazing New World Primates for six weeks. New World Primates are very different from Old World Primates. All new world monkeys come from Central and South America, and old world monkeys and apes reside in Africa and Asia. New world monkeys are generally smaller.

Being able to work with these unforgettable faces allowed me to learn so much, form rare and special bonds with these amazing animals, and feel the fantastic connection between the descendants of some of Homo sapiens closest relatives. Fortunately there are sanctuaries like Jungle Friends that take in retired lab monkeys and former pets and offer them an Almost Wild lifestyle and a safe place to reside for the rest of their days.

The red colobus monkeys seem to have remained hidden in a shrinking world of development and farmland as it encroaches on natural wildlife habitats. Unlike Max, the red colobus depicted are wild and habituated. They are rare, beautiful, and intelligent creatures who should be respected and protected. It warms my heart to know there are still some species clever enough to stay hidden and remain intact for extended periods of time. It makes me wonder what else is out there in the thickest jungles or at the bottom of the deepest oceans that we have yet to see, that is untouched by humanity.

Picture and names found in First Ever Picture Taken of Rare African Monkey by Stefan Sirucek for the National Geographic published on April 18 2015