Geladas

Geladas (Theropithecus gelada) are large Old World monkeys endemic to the Ethiopian highlands. They were formerly classified in Papio but are now placed in the genus Theropithecus. They are unusually specialized grass-eaters, spending most of their time on subalpine grasslands rather than savannas.

Physical features include a thick gray-brown coat, a bare face, and the distinctive bright red patch on the chest, known as the bleeding-heart, which intensifies during social displays. Adult males are larger and have a prominent mane; females are smaller and less robust.

Geographically, geladas occur only in Ethiopia, with populations in the Simien and Bale Mountains and surrounding highland areas. They inhabit grasslands and cliff-edge habitats at elevations roughly 1,800 to 4,500 meters, where they form large, multi-tiered social groups.

Diet is mainly grasses, supplemented by seeds and occasional fruits. Geladas live in a multi-level social system: one-male units combine into bands, which form clans and larger congregations. The social structure supports cooperative care of offspring and complex vocal and visual communication.

Reproduction occurs year-round with an average gestation around six months. Infants cling to mothers and receive care from the group. Males compete for access to females, and dominance is signaled by posture, vocalizations, and the red chest patch.

Conservation status: The IUCN lists geladas as Vulnerable due to habitat loss, hunting, and range fragmentation. They are protected in several national parks, including Bale Mountains National Park and Simien National Park, but ongoing human encroachment and climate-related pressures continue to threaten populations.