The golden langur (Trachypithecus geei) is an endangered primate species known for its distinctive golden fur. It primarily inhabits the Manas Biosphere Reserve and various fragmented forests in the western part of Assam, India.
2. How many golden langurs are there in India?
The latest survey reveals an estimated population of 7,396 golden langurs in India.
3. Who conducted the golden langur population survey?
The survey was carried out by the Primate Research Centre NE India (PRCNE), Assam Forest Department, Bodoland Territorial Council, Salim Ali Centre for Ornithology and Natural History (SACON), and Conservation Himalayas.
4. What methodology was used in the golden langur population survey?
The survey applied the block count method, considered simple, cost-effective, and robust for assessing arboreal and small group-living primates like the golden langur.
5. How was the golden langur habitat divided for the survey?
The golden langur habitat was divided into 51 counting blocks, each overlaid with 50-hectare grid cells for a thorough assessment.
6. What were the findings of the golden langur population survey?
The survey observed 7,720 individuals in 706 groups, with 31 identified as lone or floating males. The estimated minimum population size was found to be 7,396 individuals across 707 groups, including bisexual and male bands, along with the lone males.
7. How is the golden langur population distributed?
The population is divided into two major sub-populations: the northern extended population and the southern fragments. The northern population, estimated at 5,566 individuals, extends from the Sankosh River to the Manas river up to the India-Bhutan border. The southern fragments have an estimated population of 1,830 langurs.
8. How does the current population compare to previous estimates?
The latest survey’s estimate of 7,396 individuals shows an increase from the 6,000 golden langurs recorded in the 2008-09 survey.
9. What challenges do golden langurs face?
Golden langurs face challenges in fragmented habitats, particularly due to the absence of non-breeding all-male bands. These challenges are exacerbated by anthropogenic interactions.
10. What measures are suggested to protect the golden langur population?
The survey highlights the need for corridor linkage among the fragmented habitats through plantations and canopy bridges to mitigate potential threats and ensure the primates’ survival.
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