Taxonomy
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Mammal
- Order
- Primates
- Family
- Cercopithecidae
- Genus
- Semnopithecus
Habitat
Tufted grey langurs primarily inhabit dry and moist deciduous forests, as well as scrublands and urban areas in southern India and Sri Lanka. They prefer elevations up to 1,500 meters and are adaptable to fragmented habitats near human settlements. Their geographic range includes regions with seasonal rainfall, allowing them to thrive in both hilly and plain terrains.
Diet
Tufted grey langurs mainly consume leaves, fruits, and flowers from trees, with a preference for young, nutrient-rich foliage. They also eat bark, seeds, and occasionally insects or crops in human-altered areas. Feeding occurs primarily during the day, with peak activity in the early morning and late afternoon when they forage in groups.
Behavior
Tufted grey langurs live in multi-male, multi-female troops of 10-50 individuals, with a dominant male leading and defending the group. They are diurnal, spending most of their time in trees foraging, grooming, and resting, while exhibiting territorial behaviors through vocalizations and displays to ward off intruders. Notable behaviors include leaping between branches with agility and forming alliances for protection against predators.
Conservation Status
The tufted grey langur is classified as Vulnerable by the IUCN due to habitat loss and fragmentation from deforestation and urbanization. Population trends are decreasing, with major threats including roadkill and human-wildlife conflicts.