In Mali, there are two fascinating types of monkeys that nature enthusiasts can spot while exploring the region. The first type is the Patas Monkey, also known as the Wadi Monkey or Hussar Monkey. These ground-dwelling primates are known for their impressive speed, reaching up to 55 km/h (34 mph). With their pale coats and reddish-brown backs, they stand out amidst the savannahs where trees are scarce. The second type is the Senegal Bushbaby, also known as the Northern Lesser Galago. These tiny creatures have notably large eyes and are equipped with an array of adaptive abilities. They thrive in dry woodlands and savannas, sprinting and leaping through branches with their long tails. With their striking characteristics and unique behaviors, both monkey species offer an exciting opportunity to observe and appreciate the diverse wildlife in Mali.

1. Patas Monkey

Identifying Characteristics

The Patas Monkey, also known as the Wadi Monkey or Hussar Monkey, is easily recognizable by its distinctive physical features. Adults of this species are generally 61-89 cm (24-35 in) long and have 51-76 cm (20-30 in) tails. Males are generally larger than females. They have white hair framing their dark faces and pale coats that grow reddish brown around their backs.

Habitat and Behavior

Unlike many other monkey species in Mali that live in trees, Patas Monkeys are ground-dwellers. They are known for their impressive speed and are actually the fastest sprinters among primates, reaching speeds of up to 55 km/h (34 mph). These monkeys roam across savannahs where trees are sparse and widely spaced. Troops of Patas Monkeys can contain up to 60 members, with only one adult male leading the females and juveniles. At night, they sleep together in trees to protect themselves from predators.

Feeding Habits

Patas Monkeys spend a significant amount of time finding food and water due to their arid habitats. They primarily feed on sap leaking out from Acacia tree trunks. However, where their territories encroach with human settlements, they have acquired a taste for farm crops.

Interaction with Humans

The interaction of Patas Monkeys with humans varies depending on the proximity of their habitats to human settlements. Where their territories overlap with human communities, conflicts can arise due to their crop raiding behavior. However, efforts are being made to mitigate these conflicts and protect both the monkeys and the interests of local farmers.

2. Senegal Bushbaby

Identifying Characteristics

The Senegal Bushbaby, also known as the Northern Lesser Galago, is a small primate with distinct physical features. Even as adults, these tiny creatures are only 9-21 cm (4-8 in) long, with 11-28 cm (4-11 in) tails. They have notably large and rounded eyes, and their ears, hands, and feet are also proportionally large. Their wooly coats range from gray to brown, and some individuals have stripes and markings on their bodies.

Habitat and Behavior

Senegal Bushbabies thrive in dry woodlands and savannas, making them one of the most widespread primate species in Mali. Despite their small size, they are agile and fast, sprinting and leaping through the tangle of branches using their long tails for balance. They have adapted to their environments with large eyes that help them see in the dark of night, twitchy ears that can detect the faintest sounds of their insect prey, and narrow tongues that can reach deep into cracks to retrieve hidden bugs.

Feeding Habits

Senegal Bushbabies primarily feed on fruits, nuts, and insects. However, when their preferred prey is scarce, they may resort to consuming tree sap as an alternative food source.

Interaction with Humans

Senegal Bushbabies generally avoid human contact and prefer to keep to themselves. However, there may be instances where their territories overlap with human settlements, leading to occasional observations by locals. It is important to not startle or threaten these animals, as they may bite or spit when feeling threatened.

Pictures and Range Maps

Unfortunately, there are no pictures or range maps available in this article.

Additional Resources

For more information on animals in Mali, particularly birds and snakes, you can check out the following resources:

• 16 COMMON Birds Found in Mali!
• 3 COMMON Types of Snakes Found in Mali

Feel free to leave a comment below to share your thoughts or ask any questions!

Patas Monkey

Adult Size and Appearance

Patas Monkeys are medium-sized primates, with adults generally measuring 61-89 cm (24-35 in) in length, excluding the tail. They have a tail length of 51-76 cm (20-30 in). Males are typically larger than females. These monkeys have white hair framing their dark faces and pale coats that grow reddish brown around their backs.

Habitat and Range

Patas Monkeys inhabit savannahs and other arid habitats where trees are sparse and widely spaced. They are found in several African countries, including Mali.

Behavior

Patas Monkeys are known for their impressive speed, making them the fastest sprinters among primates. They have adapted to living on the ground, in contrast to many other monkey species that predominantly live in trees. Troops of Patas Monkeys can contain up to 60 members, with a single adult male leading the females and juveniles.

Diet

Patas Monkeys primarily feed on sap leaking out from Acacia tree trunks. In areas where their territories overlap with human settlements, they have been observed raiding crops as an additional food source.

Conservation Status

The conservation status of Patas Monkeys is currently listed as Least Concern by the IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature). However, like many other primate species, they face threats from habitat loss and fragmentation, as well as human-wildlife conflicts.

Senegal Bushbaby

Adult Size and Appearance

Senegal Bushbabies are small primates, with adults typically measuring 9-21 cm (4-8 in) in length, excluding the tail. Their tail length ranges from 11-28 cm (4-11 in). These creatures have large and rounded eyes, along with proportionally large ears, hands, and feet. Their wooly coats can vary in color, ranging from gray to brown, and some individuals may have stripes and markings on their bodies.

Habitat and Range

Senegal Bushbabies are widespread across dry woodlands and savannas, making them one of the most common primate species in Mali.

Behavior

These small primates are known for their agility and speed. They navigate through their environments by sprinting and leaping through branches, using their long tails for balance. Senegal Bushbabies have adapted to their nocturnal lifestyle with large eyes that help them see in the dark. Their ears are also highly sensitive, allowing them to detect the faintest sounds of their insect prey.

Diet

Senegal Bushbabies primarily feed on fruits, nuts, and insects. When their preferred prey is scarce, they may resort to feeding on tree sap.

Conservation Status

The conservation status of Senegal Bushbabies is also listed as Least Concern by the IUCN. However, like all primate species, they face threats from habitat loss and fragmentation, as well as potential conflicts with humans.

Patas Monkey vs Senegal Bushbaby

Physical Differences

Patas Monkeys are significantly larger than Senegal Bushbabies. They have a distinctive white facial hair and reddish-brown coats on their backs. In contrast, Senegal Bushbabies are much smaller in size and have proportionally large eyes, ears, hands, and feet. Their coats can vary in color from gray to brown and may have stripes and markings.

Habitat Preferences

Patas Monkeys inhabit savannahs and arid habitats with widely spaced trees. They are ground-dwelling monkeys. On the other hand, Senegal Bushbabies thrive in dry woodlands and savannas and are agile climbers, spending most of their time in trees.

Behavioral Differences

Patas Monkeys are known for their speed and ground-dwelling lifestyle. They form troops led by a single adult male. In contrast, Senegal Bushbabies are agile climbers that navigate tree branches and have adapted to a nocturnal lifestyle.

Dietary Differences

Patas Monkeys primarily feed on sap from Acacia trees and may resort to raiding crops in areas where their territories overlap with human settlements. Senegal Bushbabies feed on fruits, nuts, insects, and tree sap when their preferred prey is scarce.

Conservation Concerns

Both Patas Monkeys and Senegal Bushbabies face threats from habitat loss and fragmentation, as well as potential conflicts with humans. Efforts are needed to protect their habitats and mitigate conflicts to ensure their long-term survival.

Interesting Facts

Patas Monkey

• Patas Monkeys are the fastest sprinters among primates, reaching speeds of up to 55 km/h (34 mph).
• They are known for their ground-dwelling lifestyle in savannahs, unlike most other monkey species that predominantly live in trees.
• Troops of Patas Monkeys can contain up to 60 members, with a single adult male leading the group.

Senegal Bushbaby

• Senegal Bushbabies are one of the most widespread primate species found in Mali.
• They have adapted to a nocturnal lifestyle with their large eyes and sensitive ears.
• These small primates can easily navigate through tangles of branches, thanks to their agility and long tails.

Threats to Monkey Populations in Mali

Habitat Loss and Fragmentation

The expanding human population and increasing agricultural activities in Mali have led to widespread habitat loss and fragmentation. This loss of natural habitat significantly impacts monkey populations, including Patas Monkeys and Senegal Bushbabies.

Poaching and Illegal Wildlife Trade

Poaching and the illegal wildlife trade pose additional threats to monkey populations in Mali. Monkeys are often targeted for their meat, body parts, and as pets. This illegal activity further decimates already vulnerable populations.

Climate Change

Climate change, including changing rainfall patterns and increasing temperatures, affects the availability of food and water sources for monkey populations. These changes can disrupt their feeding habits and overall survival.

Human-Wildlife Conflict

As human populations expand and encroach upon natural habitats, conflicts between humans and monkeys can occur, particularly when monkeys raid crops or damage property. These conflicts can result in negative perceptions of monkeys and lead to retaliatory actions that harm monkey populations.

Conclusion

Mali is home to a diverse array of primate species, including the Patas Monkey and Senegal Bushbaby. These two species exhibit unique behaviors, adaptations, and physical features that make them fascinating creatures to observe. However, they also face significant threats from habitat loss, poaching, climate change, and human-wildlife conflict. Efforts must be made to protect their habitats, mitigate conflicts, and raise awareness about the importance of primate conservation. By taking proactive steps, we can ensure the long-term survival of these remarkable monkeys in Mali.