Lion Tailed Macaque
- Distribution: Western Ghats of South India (Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu)
- Habitat: Tropical rainforests, montane forests
- Diet: Omnivorous, fruits, seeds, insects, small animals
- Size: Height ranges around 45-60 cm
Physical Characteristics:
- Medium-sized primate with a robust build.
- Dark black fur with a silver-gray mane around the face, giving it a lion-like appearance.
- Short tail.
- Prominent facial features with a beard-like mane.
Distribution:
- Found in the Western Ghats of South India, including Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu.
Habitat:
- Inhabits tropical rainforests and montane forests.
- Prefers areas with dense canopy cover and a variety of tree species.
Behavior:
- Diurnal, active during the day.
- Lives in groups called troops, which typically consist of several females and their offspring with one dominant male.
- Social structure involves grooming and communication through vocalizations.
- Feeds on a variety of foods including fruits, seeds, leaves, flowers, and insects.