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Introduction
The toque monkey, popularly known as the “rilawa” in Sri Lanka, is one of the well-recognised animals of the country.
Physical Attributes
The colour of the body of the toque macaque is light brown in colour and it can grow up to a head to tail length of 120 cm. The males of this particular species weighs between four and eight kilograms while the weight of the females range from two to four kilograms.
Habitat and Environment
The toque macaque is endemic to Sri Lanka and its habitat includes forestlands and other areas where trees are prominently available. These creatures are not necessarily limited to woodlands and wildlife sanctuaries but are also found near human communities. The northern, southern, eastern as well as the south western regions of Sri Lanka are inhabited by these creatures.
Lifespan and Reproduction
Behaviour and Feeding
The feeding habits of the toque macaque revolve around fruits and these creatures have grown accustomed to human beings in several parts of the island.
Cultural and Conservation Status
The IUCN lists the toque macaque as an endangered species and the chief reasons that brought about this classification is the rapid loss of habitat. Culturally, the toque macaque is a prominent species in Sri Lanka and it is well-known throughout the island. Residents and tourists usually feed these creatures but in certain occasions, they are also treated as pests as they hinder human activities in remote areas.
References
http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/accounts/Ratufa_macroura/
http://www.arkive.org/grizzled-giant-squirrel/ratufa-macroura/
http://www.iucnredlist.org/details/19381/0
ISBN: 955 1462 00 9
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