New Monkey Species Identified in Congo

A unique species of monkey, known as Colobus congoensis or locally as Likweli, has been recognized in the Democratic Republic of Congo. This species is only the fifth new African monkey identified in the last 75 years. The monkey distinguishes itself with deep, resonant calls similar to those of other Colobus species.

In 2008, the Lukuru Wildlife Research Foundation team captured a blurry image of the monkey in Lomami National Park. Due to the unclear quality, it initially did not attract attention. Junior D. Amboko, a Ph.D. student at Florida Atlantic University and author of a research paper in PLOS One, noted the initially overlooked photograph.

A decade later, better images emerged, showing a medium-sized monkey with shaggy black fur and an orange patch around its nose and mouth. The photos were shared with Amboko and John Hart from Lukuru Wildlife Research Foundation, indicating that the monkey did not match known species in the area.

To investigate further, researchers embarked on a project with support from the National Geographic Society. From 2018 to 2022, they conducted surveys in Lomami National Park and nearby areas, recording monkey calls and interviewing residents from 52 villages. Eight villages recognized the species; the Balanga ethnic group referred to it as Likweli.

The Likweli monkey inhabits a small forest area in northeastern Congo, approximately half the size of Rhode Island. Its limited range contributes to its elusive nature, according to Amboko, who noted the monkey’s shyness.