Cercopithecus lomamiensis, courtesy of Scientific American

Scientists have identified a new species of African monkey that lives in the isolated Lomami forest basin of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Cercopithecus Lomamiensis, or “Lesula,” as the monkey is colloquially referred to, is a shy creature with astonishingly human-like expressions.

Unfortunately, the forest in which the Lesula resides faces threats from loggers and bush meat hunters, two groups that reduce the biodiversity of the forest and endanger the lives of many of the organisms within it.

Scientists are working with Congolese authorities to promote preservation of the Lesula’s habitat by establishing a national park.

To read more about the discovery or view photos of the Lesula, you can go here.