Lion-tailed Macaque (Macaca silenus)

The Lion-Tailed Macaque (Macaca silenus) is a critically endangered primate native to the tropical rainforests of the Western Ghats in South India. Once ranging freely from Goa to Kanyakumari along the Western Ghats, its habitat is now severely restricted to areas such as the Nilgiris, the Cardamom Hills, the Anaimalais, and Periyar.

These macaques inhabit the evergreen forest belt at altitudes ranging from 800 meters to 1300 meters. They are characterized by their glossy black coat, thick mane, and distinctive tufted tail, which resembles the mane of a lion, hence their name. Shy and elusive by nature, they prefer to remain in the treetops, making encounters with them difficult in their dense and dark forest environment.

The diet of the Lion-Tailed Macaque consists primarily of fruits, roots, and insects. However, the continuous assault on its habitat due to deforestation and human encroachment has led to a drastic reduction in its population in the wild. Today, it is estimated that there are only about 200 individuals remaining in the wild.

The plight of the Lion-Tailed Macaque underscores the urgent need for conservation efforts to protect its habitat and ensure its survival. By issuing commemorative stamps featuring endangered species like the Lion-Tailed Macaque during National Wildlife Week, the Indian P&T Department aims to raise awareness about the threats facing these iconic creatures and inspire action to safeguard their future.