Lion-tailed Macaque: Endangered Endemic Species of Western Ghats
Why in News
The Lion-tailed Macaque (Macaca silenus), an endangered species endemic to the Western Ghats, is increasingly found in human landscapes due to habitat loss. This exposes them to risks like road accidents and electrocution.
Background
The plight of the Lion-tailed Macaque highlights the critical issue of habitat fragmentation and human-wildlife conflict in biodiversity hotspots like the Western Ghats. Conservation efforts require large-scale habitat restoration and protection.
Key Figure
• 2,400-2,500 — mature individuals remaining • 800 — individuals recorded in human landscapes
Key Facts
- 1Species Name: Lion-tailed Macaque (Macaca silenus).
- 2Habitat: Endemic to the rainforests of the Western Ghats, primarily tree-dwelling.
- 3IUCN Red List Status: Endangered.
- 4Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972: Protected under Schedule I, affording highest legal protection.
- 5Key Features: Distinctive silver-white mane, black face, and tufted tail resembling a lion's.
- 6Diet: Primarily fruits, supplemented with insects for protein.
- 7Major Threats: Habitat loss and fragmentation (tea plantations, human habitation, roads), road accidents, electrocution.
Exam Angle
Conservation of endemic species like the Lion-tailed Macaque requires integrated landscape-level planning, addressing habitat fragmentation, and mitigating human-wildlife conflict through community engagement.
PYQ Connection
PRELIMS_FACT|MATCHING: IUCN status; WPA Schedule; Endemic species habitat.