2018-06-12 Tue

The Strait of Gibraltar not only connects the Atlantic Ocean to the Mediterranean Sea but also separates Gibraltar from Morocco in Africa. The Rock of Gibraltar is situated at the entrance of this strait. The country has recently released special coins depicting the Red Colobus monkey. The 50 pence Cupro-Nickel coloured coin in Diamond Finish is the third of a four-coin set featuring Primates. The 8.00 g coin has a mintage limit of 7,500 pieces and is produced by Pobjoy Mint. All four coins from the series come in a special magnetic collector’s album with related information about the animals, or can also be purchased separately.

The Red Colobus monkeys are majorly found in Western, Central and Eastern Africa. These specialized herbivores live on trees and are active during the day. They form groups of 100 and are social animals. They use special calls for communication like warning and mating signs.

The Red Colobus feed on leaves from more than 60 different types of trees and plants. They have a large four-chambered stomach filled with beneficial bacteria that help them digest the cellulose-filled leaves, unlike other animals. They are sensitive to habitat destruction and hunting, due to which, they are the most threatened taxonomic group of primates in Africa.

Image Courtesy: The Pobjoy Mint