The vervet monkey is a highly social and adaptable primate classified within the genus Chlorocebus, which encompasses several closely related species across Africa. These monkeys are easily identified by their striking black faces framed by a fringe of white hair, and their coat color ranges from grizzled-grey to greenish-olive. They live in troops ranging from 10 to 70 individuals, maintaining complex hierarchies and communicating through sophisticated alarm calls. Understanding their habitat requires exploring their vast native territory, the specific environments they seek out, and the non-native colonies they have established globally.
Native Range Across Africa
The vast majority of vervet monkeys are native to Sub-Saharan Africa, making them one of the most widespread primate groups in the region. Their extensive range stretches from Senegal in West Africa to Ethiopia and Eritrea in the northeast, reaching southward to the Cape region of South Africa.
The distribution covers East, Central, and Southern Africa, though they are absent from dense tropical rainforests and true desert areas. Specific countries with large populations include Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Ethiopia, Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and South Africa. Regional species, such as C. pygerythrus in the east and south and C. sabaeus in West Africa, occupy distinct territories.
The ability of the genus to thrive in diverse environments, from sea level up to 4,000 meters in mountain areas, has allowed this complex distribution to persist. This range is sometimes fragmented, particularly where different species interbreed or where their preferred habitat is scarce.
Specific Habitat Requirements
Vervet monkeys are habitat generalists, but their presence depends on permanent water and adequate sleeping trees. They are semi-terrestrial, foraging on the ground during the day and retreating to the safety of tall trees at night to avoid predators. The sleeping trees they select typically average over 7.7 meters in height.
They prefer ecotones, or transition zones, such as the borders between woodlands and grasslands. Key habitats include savanna grasslands, open woodlands, and coastal thickets. They are particularly prevalent in riverine forests, which line water sources, as their reliance on permanent water means they must drink daily.
This adaptability allows them to exploit environments near human activity. Vervets thrive in cultivated rural areas and peri-urban environments, where they forage on crops or food scraps. However, this proximity often leads to conflict, as they are sometimes viewed as agricultural pests.
Populations Established Outside of Africa
Self-sustaining populations of vervet monkeys have been established in non-native locations outside of Africa. The most prominent introduced populations are found on several islands in the Caribbean, including:
- Barbados
- St. Kitts
- Nevis
- St. Martin/St. Maarten and Tortola (to a lesser extent)
The presence of these monkeys dates back to the 17th century. They were transported from West Africa, primarily aboard slave trade ships, arriving as pets or trade items, and subsequently establishing feral colonies. Caribbean populations, particularly on St. Kitts, have expanded significantly due to the absence of natural African predators and pathogens.
These non-native monkeys are genetically linked to the West African green monkey (Chlorocebus sabaeus). They have successfully adapted to the Caribbean’s unique climate and vegetation, inhabiting agricultural and urban habitats. Minor, isolated populations have also been noted in places like Cape Verde Island and Florida.