Congo’s orange-lipped monkey roars onto the scene: a new primate species
Scientists in the Democratic Republic of the Congo have identified a new orange-lipped monkey, Colobus congoensis (Likweli), in Lomami National Park. DNA analysis confirmed it as a distinct species within the Colobus genus; the monkey weighs about 15 pounds, roams in groups up to 20, and is distinguished by an orange facial patch and unique roars. Found in a limited range of about 650 miles, the species is likely endangered due to hunting and deforestation, marking the fifth African monkey discovery in 75 years.