The Toque Macaque: Sri Lanka’s Endangered Primate – By Bhanuka – eLanka The Toque Macaque (Macaca sinica) is a unique and highly social primate species endemic to Sri Lanka. Known for its distinctive toque-like hair pattern, this monkey plays an important ecological role in Sri Lanka’s forests and has significant cultural importance. However, due to habitat destruction and other human-induced factors, the Toque Macaque is currently listed as endangered in the Red Data Book of Sri Lanka. This article explores the key characteristics, behavior, habitat, and threats faced by this fascinating species. Key Characteristics of the Toque Macaque The Toque Macaque is a medium-sized primate, typically weighing between 4 to 8 kilograms. Its most striking feature is the crown of hair on its head, which resembles a cap or “toque,” giving the species its name. The Toque Macaque comes in three subspecies, each with slightly varying physical characteristics and regional ...
Oct 5, 2024
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Articles, Bhanuka Nuwan
Tagged Conservation of Toque Macaques, Endangered primates in Sri Lanka, Endangered species in Sri Lanka, Human-wildlife conflict Sri Lanka, Macaca sinica, Sri Lankan endemic animals, Sri Lankan monkey species, Sri Lankan primates, Threats to Toque Macaque, Toque Macaque behavior, Toque Macaque cultural significance, Toque Macaque diet, Toque Macaque habitat, Toque Macaque Sri Lanka, Wildlife conservation Sri Lanka, wildlife of Sri Lanka
