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Roar & Rove

Toque Macaque

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Conservation status

IUCN Red List: Endangered (EN)

LIFE SPAN
  • In the Wild: Typically 15-20 years
  • In Captivity: Can live up to 35 years
Body size
  • Length: Approximately 35-55 cm (14-22 inches) excluding the tail.
  • Weight: Around 3.4-9 kg (7.5-20 lbs), with males typically being larger than females.
Native habitat
  • Geographical Range: Endemic to Sri Lanka.
  • Habitat: Prefers subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests, dry forests, and montane forests. It is also commonly found in human-dominated landscapes such as agricultural areas and urban regions.
Diet
  • Fruits and Seeds: A significant part of their diet.
  • Leaves and Flowers: Consumed when fruits are scarce.
  • Insects and Small Vertebrates: Providing essential protein.
  • Human Food: Often scavenged from agricultural crops and urban areas.
Toque Macaque (Macaca sinica)

The Toque Macaque is a fascinating primate native to the vibrant ecosystems of Sri Lanka. Known for its distinct appearance and social behavior, this macaque is an integral part of the island’s wildlife heritage.

Physical Characteristics: The Toque Macaque measures about 35-55 cm (14-22 inches) in length, excluding the tail, and weighs between 3.4-9 kg (7.5-20 lbs), with males typically being larger than females. It is easily recognized by its distinctive toque-shaped tuft of hair on the top of its head. Its coat varies from golden brown to dark brown, with lighter underparts. The expressive face, with large eyes and prominent cheeks, adds to its charismatic appearance.

Habitat: This primate thrives in various habitats, including subtropical and tropical moist lowland forests, dry forests, and montane forests. It is also highly adaptable to human-altered environments, often seen in agricultural areas, villages, and cities throughout Sri Lanka. The diverse landscapes of Sri Lanka provide an ideal habitat for this versatile monkey.

Diet: The diet of the Toque Macaque is diverse, primarily consisting of:

  • Fruits and Seeds: A significant part of their diet.
  • Leaves and Flowers: Consumed when fruits are scarce.
  • Insects and Small Vertebrates: Providing essential protein.
  • Human Food: Often scavenged from agricultural crops and urban areas.

Behavior: The Toque Macaque is known for its highly social and complex behavior. It lives in troops that can range from a few individuals to over 20 members, with a clear hierarchical structure. These macaques communicate using a variety of vocalizations, facial expressions, and body postures. Grooming is a vital activity that helps strengthen social bonds within the troop. Their intelligence and adaptability make them proficient in navigating both wild and human environments.

Conservation Status: According to the IUCN Red List, the Toque Macaque is classified as Endangered (EN) due to habitat loss, human-wildlife conflict, and hunting. Conservation efforts focus on habitat preservation, reducing human-macaque conflicts, and raising awareness about the species’ importance to the ecosystem.

Lifespan: In the wild, the Toque Macaque typically lives between 15-20 years, but it can live up to 35 years in captivity under optimal care.