Status and Distribution of Lion-tailed Macaque (Macaca silenus) in Western Ghats, India
Amal U K *
Department of Animal Genetics and Breeding, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Pookode, Wayanad, Kerala, 673576, India.
Monisha V
Centre for Wildlife Studies, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Pookode, Wayanad, Kerala, 673576, India.
Athul U K
Centre for Wildlife Studies, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Pookode, Wayanad, Kerala, 673576, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
An endangered primate native to India's Western Ghats, the Lion-tailed macaque (Macaca silenus) has fewer than 2,500 individuals left in fragmented forest habitats. Changes in the climate that impact the availability of food and habitat loss are major challenges. More than 60% of their diet is made up of fruits and flowers, mostly from Ficus and Cullenia exarillata species. Their feeding habits and survival are influenced by seasonal variations and disturbances to the forest. There are still few data on behavioral ecology and diet quality, despite their crucial significance. Planning for conservation and ensuring the long-term survival of a species requires an understanding of its nutritional requirements and food preferences.
Keywords: Behaviour, endemic, distribution, habitat, lion-tailed macaques, Western Ghats