# Vervet Monkey (*Chlorocebus pygerythrus*)

> The vervet monkey (Chlorocebus pygerythrus) is a greenish-grey savanna primate of East and southern Africa known for predator-specific alarm calls. Adults weigh about 5 kg and are listed Least Concern.

- **Category:** Mammal
- **Conservation status (IUCN):** Least Concern
- **Range:** Savannas and riverine woodland of East and southern Africa.
- **Canonical page:** https://globalanimalguide.org/animals/vervet-monkey/
- **Last reviewed:** 2026-07-16

## Scientific classification

- **Kingdom:** Animalia
- **Phylum:** Chordata
- **Class:** Mammalia
- **Order:** Primates
- **Family:** Cercopithecidae
- **Genus:** Chlorocebus

## Facts at a glance

| Attribute | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Scientific name | Chlorocebus pygerythrus |
| Diet | Omnivore |
| Habitat | Savanna and woodland |
| Lifespan | 15–20 years |
| Weight | 4–6 kg |
| Top speed | up to 35 km/h |
| Conservation status | Least Concern (IUCN) |

## Alarm calls with meaning

Vervets give distinct calls for leopards, eagles, and snakes, prompting different escape responses. Black faces with white brow bands and blue scrotal patches mark adult males.

## Omnivorous edge species

Fruit, flowers, gum, insects, bird eggs, and human crops all feature in the diet. Boldness near lodges and farms creates frequent human conflict.

## Savanna and riverine woodland

From Ethiopia and East Africa south to South Africa. Riverine trees and tourist camps offer reliable water and food.

## Common but persecuted

Least Concern with adaptable habits. Farmers shoot or trap raiders; research colonies nonetheless made vervets a classic model of primate communication.

## Frequently asked questions

### Do vervet monkeys have different alarm calls?

Yes — distinct calls for leopards, raptors, and snakes trigger appropriate escape behaviour in the troop.

### Why do male vervets have blue behinds?

Bright blue scrotal skin signals social status and attracts females in some contexts.

### Do vervets steal human food?

They readily raid kitchens, picnic areas, and crops near tourist lodges and farms.

### Where do vervet monkeys live?

Savannas and woodland across East and southern Africa, often near rivers.

### Are vervet monkeys used in research?

Yes — their vocal communication has been studied for decades as a model of primate alarm systems.

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Source: Global Animal Guide (https://globalanimalguide.org/animals/vervet-monkey/). Licensed CC BY-NC 4.0 — free for non-commercial reuse with attribution.