LION-TAILED MACAQUE
Macaca silenus
DESCRIPTION
The Lion-Tailed Macaque is a striking primate known for its distinctive mane of long, black hair that resembles a lion's mane, giving it its name. This species has a robust body, a long tail, and a face that is framed by a tuft of hair, with a bare, pinkish face. They are highly social animals, often found in groups, and are known for their complex vocalizations and behaviors, which include grooming and playing.
FUN FACTS
- Lion-Tailed Macaques are known for their unique vocalizations, which can include a variety of calls that serve different purposes, such as alerting others to danger or coordinating group movements
- They are also highly intelligent and have been observed using tools in the wild, showcasing their problem-solving abilities and adaptability to their environment
QUICK INFO
Lifespan15-20 years in the wild, up to 30 in captivity
Average Weight6-10 kg
Average Length50-70 cm
Diet TypeOmnivore
Social StructureThey live in groups, typically consisting of 10-20 individuals, led by a dominant male.
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonYear-round, with peaks during the rainy season
- Habitat
- These macaques inhabit tropical rainforests, preferring areas with dense canopy cover. They are arboreal and spend most of their time in trees, which provide both food and protection from predators.
- Biomes
- Tropical Rainforest
- Native Range
- Endemic to the Western Ghats of India, particularly in the states of Kerala, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu.
- Continent
- Asia
- Countries
- India
- Diet
- Lion-Tailed Macaques primarily eat fruits, leaves, and flowers, but they also consume insects and small animals. Their diet varies seasonally based on food availability.
- Diet Type
- Omnivore
- Favorite Food
- Fruits, leaves, and flowers
- Social Structure
- They live in groups, typically consisting of 10-20 individuals, led by a dominant male.
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 10-20
- Territorial
- 1
6-10 kg
Weight
50-70 cm
Length
- Coloration
- Black fur with a distinctive white mane and beard.
- Sexual Dimorphism
- Males are generally larger than females and have more pronounced manes.
- Lifespan
- 15-20 years in the wild, up to 30 in captivity
- Gestation Period
- 165 days
- Offspring per Birth
- 1
- Sexual Maturity
- 3-4 years
- Breeding Season
- Year-round, with peaks during the rainy season
EN
Endangered
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population is currently declining due to habitat loss and fragmentation.
- Wild Population Estimate
- 2,500-3,000
- Population Trend
- Decreasing
- Endangered
- 1
- Threats
- Main threats include habitat destruction due to logging and agriculture, as well as human-wildlife conflict. These factors have led to a significant decline in their population.
- Conservation Program
- Various conservation efforts are underway, including habitat protection and awareness programs.
- Predators
- Main predators include large birds of prey and possibly leopards.
- Defense Mechanisms
- They use vocalizations to warn of danger and can also display aggressive behaviors to deter threats.
- Compatible Animals
- Other primates, such as macaques and langurs, in controlled environments like zoos.
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon