Their tail resembles a lion’s tail, which is where the name ‘lion-tailed macaque’ comes from. Just like other macaques, these monkeys also have cheek pouches to temporarily store food.

Where are they located?

• Lion-tailed macaques are only native to the south-west of India (Western Ghats hills and mountains of South-western India).

Protection Status

• They are highly threatened by habitat fragmentation, deforestation, and illegal hunting, with many populations isolated.
• They are legally protected under Schedule I of the Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
• As per IUCN, they are protected under the ‘ Endangered’ category.

Fact to know

• Lion-tailed macaques have a grey mane around their face. That’s why they’re sometimes called bearded monkeys.

Source: Down To Earth