Definition & Meaning of "mangabey"

What is a "mangabey"?

Mangabeys are a group of Old World monkeys that belong to the family Cercopithecidae, and they are native to the forests of Central and West Africa. They are known for their distinctive appearance, with a stocky body, long limbs, and a long tail. Mangabeys have a complex social structure and live in large groups called troops, which can consist of dozens of individuals. They are omnivorous, feeding on a variety of fruits, seeds, leaves, insects, and small animals. Mangabeys are known for their vocalizations, using a wide range of calls and gestures for communication. They are considered vulnerable to extinction due to habitat loss and hunting, and conservation efforts are being undertaken to protect their populations.