Northeast India is a biodiversity hotspot, with a diverse array of animal species residing in its lush forests and grasslands. The region is home to several charismatic megafauna, including the one-horned Indian rhinoceros, Asian elephant, and Bengal tiger. Apart from these, the region also has numerous species of primates, such as the Hoolock gibbon and Assamese macaque, along with several species of deer, wild boar, and other herbivores. The Brahmaputra River and its tributaries support several species of river dolphins and otters, while the forests harbor several species of birds, reptiles, and amphibians, some of which are found nowhere else in the world. However, habitat destruction, poaching, and human-wildlife conflicts are some of the major threats to the biodiversity of Northeast India.
Primate Biodiversity of North East India
Northeast India is a region of rich primate biodiversity, with several species of primates found in its lush forests. The Hoolock gibbon, a charismatic and endangered primate species, is found in the forests of Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, and Manipur. Another species of gibbon, the eastern black crested gibbon, is found in the forests of Nagaland and Mizoram. The region also has several species of macaques, including the Assamese macaque, capped langur, and northern pig-tailed macaque. The western hoolock gibbon, the only ape species found in India, is also found in the forests of Arunachal Pradesh. The forests of the region also harbor several species of lorises, including the Bengal slow loris and pygmy slow loris. However, habitat loss and fragmentation, hunting for bushmeat, and pet trade are major threats to the primate populations of Northeast India. Conservation efforts, such as protected areas and community-based conservation programs, are crucial to ensure the survival of these primates and their habitats.
Capped langur
| S.No | Characteristics | Details |
| 1 | Common Name | Capped Langur |
| 2 | Scientific Name | Trachypithecus pileatus |
| 3 | Length | Up to 70 cm (28 in) |
| 4 | Colour | Black fur with white or golden cap on head |
| 5 | Height/girth | About 50-60 cm (20-24 in) tall at the shoulder |
| 6 | Tail Length | 60-90 cm (24-35 in) |
| 7 | Height till Shoulder | About 50-60 cm (20-24 in) tall at the shoulder |
| 8 | Average Weight | 9-12 kg (20-26 lb) |
| 9 | Food Habits | Primarily herbivorous, feeds on leaves, fruits, flowers, and seeds |
| 10 | Habitat | Found in the rainforests of Southeast Asia, including Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia |
| 11 | Interesting Facts | Capped langurs are known for their unique vocalizations, which can range from high-pitched whistles to low-pitched grunts. They are also known for their complex social hierarchies, and females are known to form strong bonds with one another. Capped langurs have been classified as endangered due to habitat loss and hunting for their meat and fur. |
Feature
Capped langurs, also known as spectacled langurs, are a species of Old World monkey native to South Asia, specifically found in parts of India, Nepal, and Bhutan. Here are some key features and characteristics of this species. Capped langurs have distinctive black fur on their head and limbs, with a grey or brownish-grey coat on their bodies. They also have white fur around their eyes, giving them a “spectacled” appearance.Adult male capped langurs typically weigh between 9 and 14 kilograms (20-30 pounds), while females are smaller, weighing between 6 and 10 kilograms (13-22 pounds). They can grow up to 50-70 cm in length, excluding their tail. One of the most notable characteristics of capped langurs is their social behaviour. They live in groups that consist of a dominant male, several females, and their offspring. Males compete for dominance through displays of aggression, such as vocalisations and physical fights. The females in the group are closely bonded and often help each other care for their young.
Capped langurs are also known for their unique vocalisations, which include various calls and alarms that they use to communicate with each other. They are primarily herbivorous, feeding on a variety of leaves, fruits, and flowers. In some areas, they have been known to raid crops, which can bring them into conflict with humans. Overall, capped langurs are an important part of the ecosystem in their range and are considered a vulnerable species due to habitat loss and other threats.
Food Habits
Capped langurs are primarily herbivorous, feeding on a variety of leaves, fruits, flowers, and other plant materials. They have been known to feed on over 100 different species of plants, including a variety of tree leaves, figs, mangoes, jackfruit, and bamboo shoots. They are also known to occasionally eat insects and small invertebrates.
Habitats
Capped langurs are primarily found in South Asia, specifically in parts of India, China, Myanmar and Bhutan. They are generally found in areas with dense, tall forests, including evergreen, deciduous, and semi-evergreen forests. They can also be found in wooded areas near human settlements, such as agricultural fields and orchards.
In India, capped langurs are found in the northeastern parts of India.
Vulnerable Species
Capped langurs are considered a vulnerable species in India due to habitat loss, hunting, and other threats. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) estimates that the population of capped langurs in India has declined by around 30% over the past three decades.
The exact number of capped langurs in India is difficult to determine, as they are found in scattered populations across their range. However, some estimates suggest that there may be between 20,000 to 30,000 individuals remaining in India.
One of the biggest threats to capped langurs in India is habitat loss and fragmentation, caused by deforestation for agriculture, logging, and other human activities. This has resulted in the fragmentation of their populations and the loss of their natural habitat.
In addition to habitat loss, capped langurs are also threatened by hunting and poaching for their meat and body parts, which are used in traditional medicines
Protected Areas
Located in the Lower Dibang Valley district of Arunachal Pradesh, Mehao Wildlife Sanctuary covers an area of 281 square kilometres and is known for its diverse flora and fauna. The sanctuary is home to several endangered species, including the clouded leopard, the Asiatic black bear, and the red panda. In addition to the capped langur, the sanctuary is also home to other primate species such as the hoolock gibbon and the Assamese macaque. Visitors can enjoy trekking and bird watching in the sanctuary
Located in the western part of Assam, Manas National Park covers an area of 950 square kilometres and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park is known for its biodiversity and is home to several endangered species, including the Indian rhinoceros, the pygmy hog, and the Bengal tiger. In addition to the capped langur, the park is also home to other primate species such as the hoolock gibbon and the Assamese macaque. Visitors can enjoy jeep safaris, elephant rides, and bird watching in the park.
Located in the eastern part of Assam, Dibru-Saikhowa National Park covers an area of 340 square kilometres and is known for its wetland ecosystem. The park is home to several endangered species, including the white-winged wood duck, the Bengal florican, and the Gangetic dolphin. In addition to the capped langur, the park is also home to other primate species such as the hoolock gibbon and the Assamese macaque. Visitors can enjoy bird watching, river safaris, and trekking in the park.
