Quick answer
The mandrill is the largest monkey species, with males displaying vivid blue and red facial ridges and rumps. Weighing up to 35 kg, living about 25 years, and reaching 40 km/h, it inhabits rainforests of central Africa and carries the longest canines relative to body size among primates.
Key takeaway
The mandrill is the largest monkey species, with males displaying vivid blue and red facial ridges and rumps. Weighing up to 35 kg, living about 25 years, and reaching 40 km/h, it inhabits rainforests of central Africa and carries the longest canines relative to body size among primates.
Mandrill overview
Mandrill (Mandrillus sphinx) is a mammal listed here as Vulnerable. Typical weight 19–35 kg (42–77 lb); males much larger than females; lifespan around 20–25 years in the wild.
Mandrill ecology
Diet: Omnivore — fruit, seeds, leaves, insects, and small animals. Habitat: Rainforests and gallery forest of central Africa. Movement and social systems reflect those pressures across the native range.
Mandrills and people
Learn before you travel or keep related pets. Wild mandrills are not toys; captive care needs species-specific husbandry.
Status and further reading
Conservation label in our guides: Vulnerable. See the full Mandrill profile for taxonomy, FAQs, and related topic guides on this site.
Conservation and coexistence
Listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List. Habitat loss, hunting, and climate change threaten many populations. Responsible ecotourism and community conservation help in parts of their range. Never approach or feed wild mandrills.
Human interest and research
Mandrills feature in folklore, tourism, and scientific study worldwide. Ongoing research tracks population trends, genetics, and responses to environmental change — data that guides national protection policies.
Sources
Mandrill FAQs
What are key facts about mandrills?
The mandrill is the largest monkey species, with males displaying vivid blue and red facial ridges and rumps. Weighing up to 35 kg, living about 25 years, and reaching 40 km/h, it inhabits rainforests of central Africa and carries the longest canines relative to body size among primates.
What is the scientific name of the mandrill?
Mandrillus sphinx — used in research and conservation listings for mandrills.
What do mandrills eat?
Mandrills eat fruit, seeds, leaves, insects, and small animals, with seasonal and regional variation in Rainforests and gallery forest of central Africa.
Where do mandrills live?
They are associated with Rainforests and gallery forest of central Africa. Local presence depends on food, cover, and human land use.
What is the conservation status of mandrills?
Listed in our guides as Vulnerable. Check the IUCN Red List and national assessments for the latest formal category.