- Researchers have recently cautioned that the increase of lion-tailed macaques in human–dominated landscapes is largely due to easy access to food provided by human activities.
- About Lion‑Tailed Macaques
- Also known as the “beard ape” because of the distinctive grey mane around its face, it is an old world monkey and one of the smallest macaque species in the world.
- It gets its name because of its lion-like, long, thin and tufted tail.
- It is endemic to India and is found in evergreen forests of the southern part of Western Ghats (mainly Kerala, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu).
- Key Characteristics
- It is arboreal, meaning it lives mostly in trees.
- It is diurnal, which means it is active during the day and sleeps at night high in the rainforest canopy.
- These macaques are territorial and highly communicative.
- Males mark territorial boundaries through loud calls.
- They have a complex communication system with nearly 17 different vocalisations.
- They are omnivorous with fruits forming the major part of their diet.
- Conservation Status
- IUCN: Endangered
- CITES: Appendix I
- Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972: Schedule I.
- These classifications show that the species faces a high risk of extinction and requires strict protection.
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