Context:
A rare golden langur was recently killed in Assam’s Bongaigaon, leading to protests calling for the protection of this endangered species.
Golden Langur (Trachypithecus geei)
- Golden Langur:
- Recognized by their unique golden fur, which varies with seasons and geographical location.
- An endangered species native to Western Assam (India) and Bhutan.
- Habitat:
- Reside in the upper canopy of sub-tropical forests in the south and temperate forests in the north.
- Their habitat includes moist evergreen, tropical deciduous forests, riverine regions, and savannahs.
- Distribution Range: Located in a restricted area bordered by –
- Foothills of Bhutan (north)
- Manas River (east)
- Sankosh River (west)
- Brahmaputra River (south)
- Behavior:
- Confined to high trees where their long tail aids in balancing as they leap across branches. Primarily herbivores.
- Usually found in troops of about 8, with several females for each adult male.
- Ecological Role:
- As frugivores, they help in seed dispersal, aiding in forest regeneration and maintaining ecological balance.
- Their presence is a sign of forest health.
- Conservation Status:
- IUCN Red List: Endangered
- CITES: Appendix I
- Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 (India): Schedule I, offering maximum legal protection.
Golden Langur Conservation Efforts
- Key Protected Habitats in Assam:
- Ripu Reserve Forest, Chakrashila Wildlife Sanctuary, Kakoijana Reserve Forest
- Recent Demands:
- Proposals for constructing hanging bridges over highways.
- Implementation of traffic barricades in high-risk areas to prevent accidents.
National Parks in Assam:
- Kaziranga National Park
- Manas National Park
- Nameri National Park
- Dibru-Saikhowa National Park
- Orang National Park
- Raimona National Park
- Dehing Patkai National Park
- Shikna Jwhwlao National Park
Source: IE
Previous Year Question
What is/are unique about ‘Kharai camel’, a breed found in India?
1. It is capable of swimming up to three kilometres in seawater.
2. It survives by grazing on mangroves.
3. It lives in the wild and cannot be domesticated.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
[UPSC Civil Services Exam – 2016 Prelims]
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (a)
Explanation:
Statement 3 is incorrect. It can be domesticated.