Dusky langur
Diana monkeys, also known as Diana guenons, have distinct markings with a white brow, cheeks, beard and front with diagonal stripes across the rear legs. The rest of the fur is a grey-black colour with a red rump and thighs. They have a long slender tail reaching lengths of up to 75cm. They are named after the Roman goddess Diana as their crescent-shaped brow markings are said to resemble the bow Diana carried.
These monkeys have defined territories that the male(s) will guard. Calls tell other dusky leaf monkeys where the boundaries are. Groups will have a least one male, two females and their offspring with typically 5-20 individuals in a group. In addition to maintaining the territory boundary, males keep the group together and watch for predators. Females look after the offspring.
Females often have a genital swelling to show that they are fertile. Breeding occurs throughout the year, with most babies born in January, February or March.
The diet of dusky langurs is mainly leaves. They also eat other plant material such as seeds, fruit and flowers.
The number of these monkeys has declined at a rate of 30% over the last 30 years. This means that they almost meet the criteria of Vulnerable. However, they are currently classed as Near Threatened. The main threats include habitat loss as farming and human settlements expand and hunting for food. In Malaysia there are also significant deaths on roads.
Key Facts:
Conservation Status: Near Threatened
Distribution: Malaysia, Myanmar, Thailand
Diet: Flowers, Fruit, Leaves, Seeds
Height: 40 – 60cm
Weight: 6.5 – 7.5kg
Gestation: 145 days
No. of young: 1
Life Span: 30 years
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