Allen's swamp monkey

The Congo Basin to western Zaire

Near threatened. Like many African monkeys, these animals are killed for bushmeat, often by hunters operating from boats. Lincoln Park Zoo cooperatively manages Allen's swamp monkey populations with other institutions in the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.

Limited to swamp forests, the Allen's swamp monkey is diurnal (active during the day) and arboreal (tree-dwelling), although the species is semi-terrestrial.

They forage for food on the ground and browse in shallow water for fish and insects.

Allen's swamp monkeys live in groups of up to 40. They communicate with gestures and calls. Males emit a deep, throaty croak. Single births are most common, which are nursed by the dam. Young are weaned by three months and begin eating fruits, leaves, beetles and worms. Birds, snakes and other primates hunt swamp monkeys.

• Young swamp monkeys emit a chirpy sound, often to indicate alarm.
• Webbed fingers and toes enable Allen's swamp monkeys to swim well. They will dive into water to elude predators such as eagles, snakes and pygmy chimpanzees.

One Big Easter Egg
As part of the Easter festivities, the Allen's swamp monkeys teased treats out of an oversized egg. Special enrichment throughout the year lets the animals exercise bodies and minds.