Dean M. Chriss
Photography
Having Lunch, Proboscis Monkey, Sarawak, Borneo

Having Lunch, Proboscis Monkey, Borneo

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Among the rarest primates on earth, proboscis monkeys are known for their long pendulous nose and large stomach. Photographing these creatures is a real challenge because so few exist, they are extremely shy, and they live in areas where access is difficult. They live almost exclusively in mangrove forests near fresh water and never sleep in the same spot on consecutive nights. Proboscis monkeys tend to stay in groups of 3 to 32 individuals. In this image a large male is seen picking and eating berries. Newborns have a deep blue face and dark fur which changes to the adult colors in 3-4 months. Proboscis monkeys are one of the best swimmers in the primate world, but they swim only when they must. Their scientific name is (Nasalis larvatus), but locals call them "orang belanda" which is Malay for "Dutchman".