L’Hoest’s monkeys, also known as mountain monkeys or L’Hoest’s guenons (scientific name: Cercopithecus L’hoest), are a species of Old World monkeys that are found in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, western Uganda, Rwanda, and Burundi. They inhabit the dense forests and montane bamboo forests of the region. In Rwanda, they are found in the Southwestern parts where Nyungwe National Park is also found.
L’Hoest’s monkeys are characterized by their dark brown to black fur, with a white ruff of fur around their necks. Adult males have a distinct white beard, which gives them a unique appearance. They are medium-sized monkeys, with males weighing around 7 to 10 kilograms (15 to 22 pounds) and females weighing slightly less.
These monkeys are primarily arboreal, spending most of their time in the trees. They are skilled climbers and leapers, using their strong hind limbs and long tails for balance. L’Hoest’s monkeys are primarily folivorous, feeding on leaves, fruits, and young shoots. They may also consume some insects and small vertebrates in their survival.
Nyungwe National Park offers a suitable habitat for L’Hoest’s monkeys due to its dense vegetation and abundant food resources. The park provides protection for these monkeys and other wildlife species, contributing to their conservation and preservation.