New species of monkey with orange lips and pig-like snout surprises scientists in Congo
A mysterious species of monkey, with vibrant orange lips and a sound reminiscent of a pig’s snout, has been officially recorded in the dense Congo Forest, leaving experts intrigued and highlighting the region’s vast undocumented biodiversity. The discovery was confirmed after years of observation and studies, with details revealed on July 16, 2026, by scientists involved in the research.
The identification of this unique primate took place in the heart of Lomami National Park, a remote and wildlife-rich area in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The first signs of the animal’s existence emerged in 2008, when a blurry image captured the attention of conservationists, but the species remained without formal recognition for many years.
On the same topic: Species of monkey with orange lips found in remote Congo forests
Monkey with peculiar features surprises in Congolese national park
The newly discovered species has characteristics that make it easily distinguishable from other known primates in the region. In addition to its intense orange lips, the monkey emits a particular sound, described as a snort similar to that of a pig, a detail that adds even more mystery to its existence. The animal’s preferred habitat is the dense forest canopy, which made it difficult to observe and study for a long period.
After the first unclear photographic record, a new observation in 2018 motivated the formation of a research team dedicated to unraveling the primate’s secrets. Scientists began painstaking four-year work mapping their presence and behavior in their natural environment, an effort that spanned a vast area of 1,700 square kilometers.
The scientific journey to identify the “Likweli”
The research, which lasted from 2018 to 2022, involved closely observing the monkey in its habitat and recording its unique vocalizations. Among the team members was Junior Amboko, a PhD student at Florida Atlantic University, who led some of the efforts to understand the species. He and his colleagues conducted interviews in 52 villages near the monkeys’ range, finding that only eight of them had any prior knowledge of the animal.
Local residents, who have known the primate for generations, refer to him by the name “Likweli”. This information highlights the frequent disconnect between the traditional knowledge of indigenous communities and formal scientific records. The team sought to not only document the monkey’s existence, but also understand the rich cultural and biological tapestry of Lomami National Park.
More on this story: With orange lips and unique sounds, new monkey is discovered in Congo
What “discovering” a species means for science
The discovery of a new species, as Amboko explains, goes beyond simple sightings or local knowledge. For science, “discovering” a species involves officially registering it and confirming that it evolved to be genetically distinct from other known species. This rigorous process involves genetic, morphological and ecological analyses, ensuring that the animal is recognized as a unique taxonomic unit.
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Scientific confirmation is crucial for conservation, as it allows the species to be included on protection lists, its habitat to be defended and specific policies to be formulated for its survival. Without this formalization, “Likweli” would remain a creature of local folklore, without the support of science to guarantee its protection and in-depth study.
Untapped richness of the Congo Forest and conservation challenges
The Congo Forest is the second largest rainforest in the world and an unparalleled biodiversity sanctuary. The discovery of this new species of monkey serves as a stark reminder of how much still remains unexplored and undocumented in its complex ecosystems. For Amboko, the revelation is “exciting and deeply personal”, highlighting the extraordinary biological variety of her homeland.
Lomami National Park, where the monkey was found, is one of the newest national parks in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and is home to a number of endemic and threatened species. However, like many conservation areas in Central Africa, the park faces significant pressures, including deforestation, illegal hunting and the exploitation of natural resources. Protecting these ecosystems is vital to ensure that discoveries like “Likweli” continue to happen and that Congo’s rich fauna and flora are not lost before they are fully understood.
Learn more: Scientists discover rare species of orange-lipped monkey in Congo forest
Next steps and the importance of future studies
With the confirmation of the new species, researchers plan to carry out a detailed study of the monkey, deepening knowledge about its ecology, behavior and exact distribution. The discovery could attract greater attention to the region, driving more research and resources for conservation. Collaboration between scientists and local communities will be essential to protect this and other treasures of Congolese biodiversity.
The existence of species still unknown to science, but already part of the daily life and traditional knowledge of indigenous peoples, highlights the importance of integrated approaches to research and conservation. “Likweli” is not just a new name in a scientific catalogue, but a symbol of the natural wealth that the planet still holds, and the urgent need to preserve these sanctuaries of life.
