Golden Langur Population Sees Surge in India, Survey Reports
According to an investigation by The Reader Wall, the approximate population of golden langurs in India has observed a noteworthy rise. The latest census reveals a total of 7,396 golden langurs across the country, a noticeable increase from former counts.
Detailed Investigation and Its Procedure
Our sources have reported that the comprehensive survey was executed over the span of two years, 2020 and 2021. It was conducted by a premier research establishment, the Primate Research Centre of NE India, in collaboration with the Assam Forest Department, Bodoland Territorial Council, Salim Ali Centre for Ornithology and Natural History, and Conservation Himalayas.
The survey, for the first time, utilized a unique block count technique to assess the golden langur population. It extended its reach across the Manas Biosphere Reserve and fragmented forests in western Assam.
Key Findings of The Investigation
According to the meticulous survey, the golden langur population initially appeared to be around 7,720 individuals. However, after refining the count, the final estimation stood at 7,396 individuals dispersed among 707 groups. These groups consisted of both mixed and male bands, in addition to 31 lone males.
Distribution of The Golden Langurs
The findings of the research identified two critical sub-populations of golden langurs. The more significant northern population ranges from the Sankosh River to the Manas River. In contrast, the smaller southern population extends up to the Brahmaputra River.
Comparison With Previous Survey
The results of the recent investigation indicate a substantial increase in the golden langur population from the previous count in 2008-09, which reported 6,000 individuals.
Conservation Challenges
However, despite the increase, the survey has also exposed some major challenges in conserving these primates. Particularly, it emphasizes the necessity for corridor linkage among the animals’ fragmented habitats. Such linkage is deemed critical to ensure the golden langurs’ survival amidst various anthropogenic threats.
