Diurnal behavioral activity patterns of free-ranging colobus monkey (colobus guereza, ruppell 1835) in Bonga forest, South West Ethiopia

The diurnal activity patterns of the Colobus guereza were investigated in the Bonga Forest, Ethiopia, a region where no detailed published information exists on the species’ behavioural ecology. This study aimed to examine the daily activity patterns and time budget of C. guereza across seasons and demographic groups. Behavioural observations were conducted using the scan sampling method during both the dry and wet seasons. Data were analysed in SPSS version 23 using Chi-square tests, ANOVA, and independent sample t-tests to assess variation in activity patterns. A total of 1,303 scans were recorded in the dry season and 1,191 in the wet season. Across both seasons, the monkeys spent most of their time resting (45.3%), followed closely by feeding (42.3%). Statistical analyses revealed significant differences in activity budgets among sex–age categories (p ≤ 0.05). Adult females allocated the highest proportion of time to feeding and resting compared to adult males, sub-adults, and juveniles. Juveniles devoted more time to playing than any other age group, reflecting developmental and social needs. Seasonal differences in activity distribution were observed, though the dominance of resting and feeding persisted year-round. The high abundance of C. guereza in Bonga Forest is likely supported by the diversity, structural integrity, and continuity of its habitats, which meet the species’ dietary and shelter requirements. These findings provide valuable baseline data for understanding the species’ behavioural ecology in a relatively undisturbed montane forest system. Given the species’ dependence on intact forest habitats, effective long-term conservation will require stringent habitat protection measures. This study underscores the importance of integrating behavioural data into conservation planning and highlights the role of Bonga Forest as a critical refuge for C. guereza and other forest-dependent wildlife.