Story of Lion-tailed macaques from the city of Valparai
Joseph Roy
Lion-tailed macaques are a unique and endangered species of primates that are native to the Western Ghats mountain range in South India. These majestic animals are named for their distinctive mane-like fur and are known for their playful behaviour and strong social bonds. Unfortunately, habitat loss due to deforestation has led to a decline in their population, with estimates suggesting that there are now fewer than 4,000 individuals left in the wild.
In recent years, however, there have been reports of lion-tailed macaques living in urban areas, such as in the city of Coimbatore in Tamil Nadu, India. This is an unusual phenomenon as these animals are typically found in forested areas and are not known for adapting to urban environments. So, why are they moving to the cities? In the city of Valparai, they live in the nearby Puthuthottam forest patch and depend on the city obligately for their food needs.
One reason could be the loss of their natural habitat. As more and more forests are cleared for human activities like agriculture and urbanization, the macaques are forced to seek out new habitats. Urban areas, with their abundance of trees, parks, and gardens, may provide a suitable alternative.
Another factor could be the easy availability of food. The macaques are known to have a varied diet, which includes fruits, seeds, flowers, and insects. In cities, they may have access to a wider variety of food sources, including discarded food from restaurants and homes. This is not necessarily a good thing, as it can lead to conflicts with humans who may view them as pests or may feed them inappropriate food.
While it may seem exciting to have these unique animals in our cities, it is important to remember that they are still endangered and need protection. Urban areas can be dangerous for them, with traffic, pollution, and dogs posing a threat. Additionally, they may suffer from stress due to the noise and activity levels in cities. Therefore, it is crucial to implement measures to protect these animals and their habitats, both in the forests and in the cities.
In conclusion, the presence of lion-tailed macaques in urban areas is a reminder of the impact of human activities on wildlife and the urgent need to take steps to protect them. We must work towards conserving their natural habitats and ensuring that they are safe and protected, whether they live in the forests or in the cities.
