Scientists have discovered Likweli, Africa’s fifth new monkey species in 75 years, in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The rare primate remained hidden in remote rainforests until years of fieldwork, genetic studies and observations confirmed it as a distinct species.
Gurpreet Singh
July 16, 2026 / 12:50 IST
Likweli: A new monkey species discovered in Africa. (Image: Daniel Rosengren)
- New monkey species, Likweli, found in Congo.
- It’s Africa’s 5th new monkey in 75 years.
- Likweli has black fur, orange-pink lips and roaring call.
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A new monkey species in Africa has made scientists alarmed. This species was named after 75 years of its existence. This monkey was found in rainforests of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Researchers have identified Likweli (Colobus congoensis), a previously unknown monkey species.
The discovery is a rare milestone for primate science and a reminder that some of Earth’s largest forests still hold secrets waiting to be uncovered.
Africa’s 5th New Monkey Species in 75 Years
New monkey species are rarely discovered in Africa. According to the research team, Likweli is only the 5th new African monkey species to be scientifically described in the past 75 years.
The discovery reshapes scientists’ understanding of primate evolution in Central Africa. It also shows that remote forests can still harbour large mammals that remain unknown to science despite decades of biological surveys.
Meet Likweli: Newly identified Monkey
Likweli belongs to the colobus monkey family. It has glossy black fur, striking orange-pink lips and a distinctive roaring call that helps researchers tell it apart from closely related species.
Scientists confirmed that it is genetically and physically different from other colobus monkeys. These differences are sufficient to conclude that it should not be considered a local population of an existing species, but rather a separate species.
how are we feeling about the new monkey? (likweli colobus in the drc) pic.twitter.com/wXcNnQ5X9D
— ry (@3onkry5) July 16, 2026
Where Was It Hiding?
Likweli is a remote area of the Democratic Republic of the Congo between the Lomami and Lilo rivers. It was kept in the dark by dense rainforest, poor access and the restricted range of the monkey.
The local communities had been aware of the animal for a long time but research into the animal only started after questions were raised in the field and from photographs regarding its identity.
Was it missed by scientists?
Not exactly. Back in 2008, scientists first noted something was amiss, as the images showed a monkey that no one had seen before. It was followed by several expeditions as they began to gather evidence with observations, vocal recordings and DNA analysis. It took years before scientists could be sure that Likweli was a species of its own.
What’s Next for Likweli?
Likweli’s estimated size indicates a possible small population, and it may already be at risk due to hunting and deforestation. They are urging conservation measures, and additional surveys to assess their numbers.
The discovery is not only a scientific find but it is also a historical one. It is a reminder that though the Earth’s rainforests have yielded up some incredible wildlife discoveries recently, that’s only what science has begun to grasp.
Gurpreet Singh
first published: Jul 16, 2026 12:50 pm
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