What Is the Fastest Primate on Earth?

Usain Bolt is usually considered to be the world’s fastest man, holding world records in both the 100-meter and 200-meter track events. His 9.58-second effort during the 100 meters at the 2009 World Championships in Athletics translates to a speed of 27.8 miles per hour (44.72 km/hour). But Usain Bolt would be no match for a patas monkey, thought to be the fastest primate on Earth. Native to central Africa, the patas monkey can achieve a top speed of over 34 mph (about 55 km/h), running on all four of its long limbs.

Our speediest relatives:

• The patas monkey, also known as the wadi monkey or the hussar monkey, needs to be lightning-fast in order to evade predators such as lions and hyenas.
• Patas monkeys are sometimes called “military monkeys” because of their formal-looking red coats and jaunty white mustaches.
• Are humans primates? Genetic research suggests that humans and all other living primates evolved from a common ancestor between six and eight million years ago.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the fastest primate on Earth?

The title of the fastest primate on Earth goes to the Patas monkey (Erythrocebus patas), capable of reaching speeds up to 55 kilometers per hour (34 mph). This incredible speed allows them to evade predators on the ground, which is essential for their survival in the open grasslands of Africa where they reside.

How does the Patas monkey's speed compare to other fast animals?

While the Patas monkey is the fastest primate, it is not the fastest land animal. That distinction belongs to the cheetah, which can reach speeds of up to 112 kilometers per hour (70 mph). However, in the primate world, the Patas monkey's speed is unmatched, making it a remarkable species in terms of terrestrial locomotion.

What adaptations help the Patas monkey achieve such high speeds?

The Patas monkey has long limbs and powerful hind legs, which contribute to its impressive speed. Additionally, its slender build reduces air resistance, and the shape of its feet allows for efficient energy transfer during running. These physical adaptations are evolutionary responses to the need for speed in predator-rich environments.

Where can Patas monkeys be found in the wild?

Patas monkeys are native to the savannas and open grasslands of sub-Saharan Africa. They range from Senegal in the west to Ethiopia in the east, and as far south as Tanzania. Their habitat choice is influenced by the need for open spaces where they can utilize their speed to escape from threats.

What are the primary threats to the Patas monkey's survival?

The primary threats to Patas monkeys include habitat loss due to agricultural expansion and deforestation. They are also hunted for bushmeat and affected by human-wildlife conflict. Conservation efforts are crucial to protect these primates, as their habitats continue to be encroached upon by human activities.

Are Patas monkeys social animals, and how do they live in the wild?

Patas monkeys are indeed social creatures, living in groups typically ranging from 10 to 30 individuals, although larger groups are not uncommon. These groups are usually matriarchal, with females remaining in their natal groups for life, while males disperse after reaching maturity. Their social structure is key to their survival, providing protection and cooperative care for the young.