Source: TH
Context: The lion-tailed macaque endemic to the Western Ghats, faces growing threats from increased human interaction due to habitat encroachment, tourism, and road crossings.
About Lion-Tailed Macaque:
- What it is:
- Scientific name: Macaca silenus
- An Old-World monkey named for its lion-like tufted tail and grey mane, also called a bearded monkey.
- Known for distinct vocalizations (17 types) used for communication and territory marking.
- Endemic to:
- Found exclusively in the rainforests of the Western Ghats in Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu, India.
- Unique features:
- Characterized by a grey mane-like fur around the face and a long, tufted tail.
- Primarily arboreal, relying on dense rainforest canopies for food and safety.
- IUCN Status:
- Listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List.
- Protected under Appendix I of CITES and Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
- Habitat:
- Inhabits small, fragmented patches of rainforests in the Western Ghats, vulnerable to deforestation, fragmentation, and human intrusion.
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