This subfamily shares several common traits such as cheek pouches, low and rounded molar cusps, and simple stomachs; all adaptations to a frugivorous diet.

Wolf's mona monkey has two subspecies[1] which are separated by a large area of swamp forest:[6] Guenons, the largest group of African primates, are very colorful.

Wolf's mona monkey is dark grey with a red "saddle" on its back.

[7] Its small size makes it susceptible to predators, especially the crowned eagle and the leopard.

[8][9] In captivity, individuals have been observed soaking monkey biscuits in water before eating them.

[10] The birth season for Wolf's mona monkey is from June through December due to rainfall and resource availability.

Among cercopithecines, forest guenons such as Wolf's mona monkey have very developed cheek pouches.

The evolution of these cheek pouches in both genera may be a response to the increased potential for interspecific competition in the mixed-species associations which these monkeys frequently form.

In one study, Wolf's mona monkeys were found associating with bonobos within 20 metres for an average time of 20 minutes (although sometimes for over an hour).

Wolf's mona monkey was found to feed in the trees while the bonobo fed or rested.

A five-year study in Salonga National Park witnessed five incidents where bonobos preyed on groups of monkeys.

[13] When forming associations with other primates it is necessary that there is a difference in diet or feeding height between the species to reduce competition.

When in a mixed group, Wolf's mona monkey will move and forage at a mean height of 17 metres.