Purple-faced Langur
Semnopithecus vetulus
Conservation Status
EndangeredMammalia · Primates · Cercopithecidae
About
The purple-faced langur, also known as the purple-faced leaf monkey, is a species of Old World monkey that is endemic to Sri Lanka. The animal is a long-tailed arboreal species, identified by a mostly brown appearance, dark face and a very shy nature. The species was once highly prevalent, found in suburban Colombo and the "wet zone" villages, but rapid urbanization has led to a significant decrease in the population level of the monkeys. It had traditionally been classified within the genus Trachypithecus but was moved to the genus Semnopithecus based on DNA evidence indicating that is it more closely related to the gray langurs.
Fun Fact
The animal is a long-tailed arboreal species, identified by a mostly brown appearance, dark face (with paler lower face) and a very shy nature.
Quick Facts
Habitat
Found in closed canopy forests in Sri Lanka's mountains and the southwestern part of the country, known as the "wet zone".
Diet
Feed on fruits, flowers, and seeds.
Lifespan
To be updated
Threats
- Habitat Loss
- Poaching and Hunting
- Human-Wildlife Conflict
- Disease