Taxonomy
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Mammal
- Order
- Primates
- Family
- Cercopithecidae
- Genus
- Presbytis
Habitat
The Sarawak surili inhabits the tropical rainforests of Borneo, particularly in Sarawak, Malaysia, favoring lowland and hill dipterocarp forests. They are strictly arboreal, preferring dense canopies for movement and shelter. These areas provide ample foliage for feeding and protection from predators.
Diet
The Sarawak surili primarily consumes young leaves, fruits, and flowers from the forest canopy. They exhibit selective feeding behavior, spending much of the day foraging in groups to avoid competition. Feeding occurs mainly during daylight hours when they are most active.
Behavior
Sarawak surilis live in social groups of 5-20 individuals, typically led by a dominant male, and communicate through vocalizations and facial expressions. They are diurnal and highly arboreal, spending most of their time in trees to forage and rest. These monkeys display territorial behavior, defending their home ranges with alarm calls and chases.
Conservation Status
The IUCN classifies the Sarawak surili as Vulnerable due to ongoing habitat loss from logging and agriculture. Population trends are decreasing, with major threats including fragmentation of rainforest habitats.