Mammals
Hanuman Langur
Semnopithecus entellus · also called northern plains gray langur, sacred langur
On the roof of a temple in India, a Hanuman langur sits upright, black face framed by pale fur and long tail hanging down, a monkey named for a god and welcomed where others are chased away.
Overview
The Hanuman langur, Semnopithecus entellus, is a Least Concern monkey of the forests, grasslands, and towns of the Indian subcontinent. Its black face, long limbs, and religious significance in India make it one of the most culturally important monkeys in the world.
A monkey with sacred status
Because the Hanuman langur is linked to the Hindu monkey god, many communities tolerate or feed it, so it lives closer to people than most wild primates.
Status
Least Concern, widespread but declining in places.
Hanuman Langur: common questions
Why is it called the Hanuman langur?
It is named for Hanuman, the Hindu monkey god, and is revered in many parts of India.
Does the Hanuman langur live near people?
Yes, it lives in and around temples, villages, and towns, where it is often tolerated or fed.
What does the Hanuman langur eat?
It is a herbivore that eats leaves, fruit, flowers, and shoots.
Where is the Hanuman langur found?
It lives in forest, scrub, grassland, and towns across much of the Indian subcontinent.