1. Comprehensive population estimation of endangered golden langur conducted in India.
2. Survey encompassed Manas Biosphere Reserve and fragmented forests in north-western Assam.
3. Collaborative effort involving Primate Research Centre NE India, Forest Department, and other organizations.
New Delhi, March 10: A comprehensive population estimation of the endangered golden langur (Trachypithecus geei) was recently conducted in its entire distribution range in India, revealing encouraging numbers.
Jointly conducted by the Primate Research Centre NE India (PRCNE), Forest Department, Bodoland Territorial Council, SACON, and Conservation Himalayas, the survey covered the Manas Biosphere Reserve and fragmented forests in north-western Assam.
The survey employed the occupancy framework of the block count method to assess golden langur abundance, spatial distribution, and densities.
Ten enumeration teams surveyed 51 counting blocks over 56 days, revealing 7,720 individuals across 706 unique groups and 31 lone males.
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The population is divided into two major sub-populations: the ‘northern extended population’ in the western part of the Manas Biosphere Reserve and the ‘southern fragmented population’ along NH 27 up to the river Brahmaputra.
The northern population comprises 5,566 langurs in 534 groups and 23 lone males, while the southern fragments harbor 1,830 langurs in 173 groups and 8 lone males.
Significantly, the population trend shows an increase compared to the 2008-09 estimation, though forest cover shrinkage poses a threat to habitat.
The average group size has also increased to 10.69 individuals, with concerns raised about unstable fragmented habitats and demographic bottlenecks.
Dr. Joydeep Shil of SACON emphasized the need for corridor linkage among fragmented habitats to ensure the long-term viability of golden langur populations.
In response to the survey findings, a Conservation Action Plan for the Golden langur in India is being developed, involving multiple stakeholders.
Additionally, the BTC government’s decision to upgrade Chirang RF into protected areas is expected to enhance conservation efforts for the species.
