Seven Iconic Wild Animals Found In Nagaland And Where To See Them

Nagaland is one of India's wildest states, with remoteness, less-explored wildernesses, and lesser-known tribal communities with unique cultural practices. As part of the Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot, Nagaland's ecosystems are home to great biodiversity. The remote hills, lush valleys, thick rainforests, and scenic rivers of the state are home to many species of flora and fauna. Here are seven iconic wild animals of Nagaland.

Blyth’s Tragopan (Tragopan blythii)

A Blyth's tragopan. Image credit: Kevin Schofield via Flickr.com.

Blyth's Tragopan, the state bird of Nagaland, is a rare and striking pheasant species found in the hill forests of the state. This species is known for the male's bright plumage during the breeding season. Unfortunately, habitat loss and hunting have led to its decline, making it a vulnerable species on the IUCN Red List. Conservation efforts are crucial to ensure its survival. In 1998, the Khonoma Nature Conservation and Tragopan Sanctuary was established in Nagaland's Kohima district to protect this bird.

The Mithun (Bos frontalis)

A mithun. Image credit: Mike Prince via Flickr.com.

This bovid, a semi-domesticated form of the gaur, holds immense cultural and economic significance in Nagaland. It is also the state animal, revered as a symbol of wealth and prestige. Beyond its cultural role, Mithun plays an ecological part in maintaining the forest ecosystem, which roams freely in semi-wild conditions.

Amur Falcon (Falco amurensis)

An Amur falcon. Image credit: Amudha HariHaran via Flickr.com.

Every year, Nagaland witnesses a spectacular natural event with the arrival of the Amur Falcon (Falco amurensis). These small migratory falcons travel thousands of kilometers from Siberia and China to roost in Nagaland before continuing their journey to Africa. Once threatened by mass hunting, the Amur falcons are now protected thanks to community-led conservation initiatives, turning the state into a global model for bird protection. The Pangti village in Nagaland's Wokha district is a great place to see these birds roosting in winter.

The Asian Giant Tortoise (Manouria emys)

The Asian giant tortoise. Image credit: Rushenb via Wikimedia Commons.

A critically endangered species, this tortoise was almost wiped out in Nagaland nearly a decade ago. However, a captive breeding program for the tortoise was started in 2018 at the Nagaland Zoological Park. The animals used for this program were mainly those given by former pet owners. Recently, in August 2025, ten Asian giant tortoises were released in  Zeliang Community Reserve in Nagaland’s Peren district and put under the care of community youth in the area.

Clouded Leopard (Neofelis nebulosa) 

A clouded leopard. Image credit: Tambako the Jaguar via Flickr.com.

Among the predators of Nagaland's forest, the clouded leopard, a medium-sized wild cat, is one of the most elusive and beautiful. It is named for its gorgeous cloud-like coat patterns. It is an agile climber that usually rests on trees in the day and hunts on the ground at night. Being highly secretive, sightings are rare, and its survival depends on the conservation of undisturbed forest habitats. It is a Vulnerable species. In 2022, a clouded leopard was spotted at an elevation of 3,700 m in a community-owned forest in Nagaland near the Myanmar border. It was one of the highest sightings of this species. 

The Western Hoolock Gibbon (Hoolock hoolock)

A Western hoolock gibbon. Image credit: Timothy A. Gonsalves via Wikimedia Commons.

India's only ape, this primate is found in only parts of Northeast India, including the forests of Nagaland. The species is highly arboreal and needs a continuous cover of tall trees to survive. Known for their loud calls and remarkable brachiation (swinging from tree to tree), hoolock gibbons are vital seed dispersers and indicators of healthy forests. Unfortunately, they face threats from deforestation and hunting, and are an endangered species. In Nagaland, these animals can be found in small numbers in the Ntangki National Park, Fakim Wildlife Sanctuary, and Singphan Reserved Forest.

Naga wren-babbler (Spelaeornis chocolatinus)

A Naga wren-babbler. Image credit: Subhajit Chaudhuri via Wikimedia Commons.

This rare bird is found in the dense undergrowth of evergreen forests near forest streams in Nagaland and Manipur states in India. It is a near-threatened species, and habitat loss is a major threat to its survival. Spotting this bird is extremely difficult as it lives in dense foliage. On rare occasions, hikers have spotted or heard this bird on long, arduous trekking routes through Nagaland's forests.

Nagaland’s animals embody both natural beauty and cultural importance. From the migratory Amur falcons that unite communities in conservation to the Mithun that represents tradition and identity, these species highlight the deep bond between people and nature. Protecting these creatures and their habitats is not just about safeguarding wildlife, but also about preserving Nagaland's heritage and ecological future.

Seven Iconic Wild Animals Found In Goa And Where To See Them

Goa, India's smallest state, is widely celebrated for its beaches, Portuguese heritage, and vibrant culture. Yet many are not aware that beyond the sands, surf, and music scene of Goa lies a remarkable wilderness that defines the state's identity. Stretching from the peaks of the Western Ghats to the shores of the Arabian Sea, Goa is home to a great diversity of ecosystems, housing incredible biodiversity. Here are seven iconic species found in Goa.

Indian Gaur (Bos gaurus) 

A majestic gaur in the forest. Image credit: N. A. Naseer / www.nilgirimarten.com / naseerart@gmail.com via Wikimedia Commons.

The state animal of Goa, the gaur or Indian bison, is the largest bovid species in the world. It symbolizes strength, endurance, and resilience—qualities that resonate with Goa's spirit. Its role as a grazer and seed disperser makes it vital for ecosystem balance. The Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary in northeastern Goa is a great place to see gaur herds grazing in the wilderness.

Malabar Pit Viper (Trimeresurus malabaricus) 

A Malabar pit viper. Image credit: Chinmayisk via Wikimedia Commons

This strikingly patterned snake thrives in the dense forests of the Western Ghats. Its seasonal visibility during the monsoon makes it one of Goa’s most photographed reptiles. It presents itself in various colour morphs like green, brown, blue, etc., making it a photographer's delight. Many travel to Goa's lush and dense rainforests during the monsoon season to capture images of this beautiful snake and many other herpetofauna species that thrive in the area. As a predator of small animals, the Malabar pit viper helps regulate populations, keeping ecosystems healthy. The Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary in Goa is an excellent place to watch these snakes in the wild.

Malabar Tree Nymph (Idea malabarica)

A beautiful Malabar tree nymph. Image credit: Afsarnayakkan via Wikimedia Commons.

This flying beauty was declared Goa's state butterfly in 2021. Known for its delicate, floating flight, the Malabar tree nymph is one of the most enchanting butterflies of the region and is also called the paperkite. Endemic to the Western Ghats, it is also an indicator species—its presence reflects the health of forest ecosystems. 

Hump-nosed Pit Viper (Hypnale hypnale)

A hump-nosed pit viper on the forest floor. Image credit: Dr. Raju Kasambe via Wikimedia Commons.

Small but striking, this viper with its distinct upturned snout is a lesser-known yet important reptile of Goa’s forests. Its role as a predator of amphibians and small mammals maintains balance in the food web. Because it is unique to the Western Ghats and has both ecological and medical significance, it represents the hidden, often overlooked diversity of Goa’s wildlife. Guided forest walks, usually at night, in the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary in Goa, provide an opportunity to view these snakes.

Tiger (Panthera tigris tigris)

A majestic tiger. Image credit: Derrick Brutel via Flickr.com.

The tiger, India’s national animal, has been recorded in Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary and the surrounding forests. Although sightings are rare, its presence is a matter of pride and proof that Goa’s habitats are part of a larger Western Ghats corridor. As an apex predator, the tiger regulates prey species, keeping Goa's ecosystem in balance. Conservationists in the area are advocating for the Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary to be declared a tiger reserve to ensure that Goa's tigers receive the protection they deserve.

Olive Ridley Turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea) 

An Olive Ridley turtle. Image credit: Pinku Halder via Wikimedia Commons.

Goa’s beaches—Morjim, Agonda, and Galgibaga—are globally recognized as important nesting sites for Olive Ridley turtles. These ancient mariners travel long distances to lay eggs on Goan shores. Conservation programs involving local communities have given the Olive Ridley a special place in Goa’s identity as a state that values marine biodiversity. 

Flame-throated Bulbul (Rubigula gularis) 

A beautiful flame-throated bulbul on a tree branch. Image credit: Prajwalkm via Wikimedia Commons.

The state bird of Goa, the flame-throated bulbul, with its olive back, yellow undersides, black head, and bright crimson throat, is a vibrant presence in Goa’s forests. Its melodious call adds life to the Western Ghats, making it beloved among birdwatchers. These birds can be seen in Goa's lush forests, often in groups, foraging in the canopy for food. They are omnivores, feeding on both insects and plant parts. 

Four Wild Cat Species Seen In Ladakh

Image by AI

Ladakh, India's largest Union Territory, is known for its rugged mountains, stark valleys, and unique Buddhist culture. Although a high-altitude, cold desert, Ladakh's barren appearance houses a remarkable diversity of wildlife, particularly wild cat species. Despite the extreme climate and high elevations, Ladakh is home to some of the most threatened and elusive felines in the world - the snow leopard, the Pallas's cat, and the Eurasian lynx. The common leopard has also been spotted in the region, and research is going on to understand if it is a vagrant or a resident.

The Snow Leopard (Panthera uncia)

A snow leopard in the mountains of Ladakh. Image credit: Snow Leopard Trust Ismail Sharif via Wikimedia Commons

According to a study, around two-thirds or 68% of the snow leopard population in India is found in Ladakh. The region is home to an estimated 477 snow leopards. The snow leopard density in Ladakh is higher in the protected areas of the Hemis National Park and Nubra Shyok Wildlife Sanctuary (around 3 per 100 km2). The overall density of this big cat in Ladakh is around 1 per 100 km². 

Often called the "ghost of the mountains," due to its excellent camouflage and secretive ways, the snow leopard, called Shan in the local language, inhabits steep rocky cliffs, alpine meadows, and glacial valleys at elevations ranging from 3,000 to 5,500 meters in Ladakh. It primarily preys on blue sheep (bharal) and ibex, as well as smaller mammals and birds.

There is a significant degree of acceptance of the snow leopard's presence in Ladakh due to the prevalent Buddhist culture that preaches compassion for all beings. Also, government and private organisations are working in the area to reduce human-snow leopard conflict by arranging ways and means to ensure that locals receive compensation for livestock loss due to snow leopard predation. 

The Eurasian Lynx (Lynx lynx isabellinus)

An Eurasian lynx in the snow. Image credit: Aconcagua via Wikimedia Commons.

Although it is the second largest wild cat found in Ladakh, most people are hardly aware of its presence due to its low numbers and extremely elusive behaviour. The Eurasian lynx subspecies found in Ladakh is called the Himalayan lynx or Asian lynx. Unlike most other subspecies that are found in forested areas, this one prefers rocky terrains with sparse vegetation, where its spotted coat provides excellent camouflage. 

The Asian lynx is recognized by its tufted ears and short tail. These cats hunt Tibetan woolly hares, small-sized ungulates, Royle's pikas, marmots, and livestock like sheep and goats. 

Called Eeh in the local language, this animal is found in various parts of the region, such as the Hemis National Park, Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary, and Nubra Valley. This secretive species is difficult to spot and study as its scat is also hard to find. It buries its scat like domestic cats.

The Pallas’s Cat (Otocolobus manul)

A beautiful Pallas's Cat. Image credit: Tambako the Jaguar via Flickr.com.

This species might look extremely adorable, but it is also very sturdy and strong. Known locally as “Shan” or “Manul,” the Pallas’s cat is found in high-elevation areas in the region. Unlike other small wild cats, which usually have vertical pupils, this species has rounded pupils. It inhabits rocky crevices or burrows left vacant by marmots. It is crepuscular in nature and hunts marmots, other small animals, and birds. A single cat, though small, can have a territory of around 100 km². The Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary and the Hanle, Lal Pahari, and Staklung areas are known for Pallas's cat sightings. In Ladakh, these cats have been found living at elevations ranging from 3,000 to 4,800 m.

The Leopard (Panthera pardus): Vagrant or Resident?

A leopard in the mountains. Image by AI.

In the winter of 2018, scientists conducted a camera trap survey that revealed the presence of a common leopard. An adult male leopard was captured twice on camera traps within 31 days. This was the first documentation of the presence of a common leopard in Ladakh. However, rare anecdotal notes from locals of the area report sightings of a yellowish big cat, different from the snow leopard, which is more widely known.

The study was published in the Journal of BNHS (link provided below). Scientists believe it could be a vagrant individual who had strayed into the high-elevation region but was not a resident. However, as evident in the camera trap images, it appeared healthy even after a month. It is believed to have fed well despite the extreme environment of Ladakh in winter.

Although this is the only recorded scientific documentation of a common leopard in Ladakh till date, it might or might not be included on the list of wild cats found in Ladakh.

Conservation Challenges

The survival of these wild cat species is threatened by habitat degradation, poaching, climate change, and conflict with humans over livestock depredation. Rapid infrastructure development in Ladakh, such as roads and tourism facilities, also fragments wildlife habitats. Climate change poses an additional risk by altering prey distribution and vegetation patterns.

Ladakh’s wild cats—from the majestic snow leopard to the little-known Pallas’s cat—are jewels of the trans-Himalayan ecosystem. Their presence highlights the ecological richness of this cold desert and the importance of conserving fragile mountain habitats. By balancing conservation with sustainable livelihoods, Ladakh can continue to serve as a safe haven for these rare and fascinating felines. Protecting them is not only crucial for biodiversity but also for maintaining the cultural and natural heritage of the Himalayas.

References:

• Snow leopard survey finds the elusive cat thriving
• Pallas’s cat’s sightings become more common in Ladakh
• The poorly studied Eurasian lynx in Ladakh needs more research for conservation
• First Confirmed Record of Common Leopard Panthera pardus from Hemis National Park, Ladakh, India

Seven Iconic Wild Animals Found In Bihar And Where To See Them

Bihar, one of the oldest cultural regions of India, is not only known for its rich history but also for its diverse wildlife. Its forests, wetlands, grasslands, and rivers provide habitats for a wide variety of wild animals. The state is home to important protected areas such as Valmiki Tiger Reserve, Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary, Bhimbandh Wildlife Sanctuary, and Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary, which safeguard rare and endangered species. Below are seven notable wild animals of Bihar and the regions where they are found.

Royal Bengal Tiger (Panthera tigris tigris)

The Indian tiger. Image credit: Derrick Brutel via Flickr.com.

The Royal Bengal Tiger is the most iconic wild animal of Bihar. Valmiki Tiger Reserve, which borders Nepal's Chitwan National Park, is the only tiger reserve in the state. The tiger plays a critical role as a top predator in the ecosystem. With rising conservation efforts, tiger numbers have shown improvement in this reserve. The tiger reserve is now home to around 54 tigers.

Where to see: Valmiki Tiger Reserve in West Champaran district.

Gharial (Gavialis gangeticus)

 A male gharial. Image credit: Charles J. Sharp via Wikimedia Commons

The gharial, a critically endangered crocodilian, is known for its long, narrow snout adapted for catching fish. Male gharials have an earthen pot-shaped projection towards the end of their snout, which gives the species its name of "gharial" as "ghara" in the local language refers to a pot. The gharial is found in Bihar's riverine habitats and is an important indicator of freshwater ecosystem health. It is susceptible to pollution and other anthropogenic disturbances in its aquatic ecosystem and hence, is on the verge of extinction. 

Where to see: Parts of the Gandak River 

Peacock Pansy Butterfly (Junonia almana)

A peacock pansy butterfly. Image credit: Joydeep via Wikimedia Commons.

The Peacock Pansy is one of the most beautiful butterflies of Bihar, recognizable by its striking orange wings decorated with eye-like spots resembling a peacock's feathers. As a pollinator, it plays a key ecological role in maintaining plant diversity. Its presence in Bihar reflects the rich insect biodiversity that supports larger ecosystems.

Where to see: Grasslands, gardens, and forest edges across Bihar

Gaur (Bos gaurus)

    A majestic gaur. Image credit: Rahans via Wikimedia Commons.

The gaur, commonly called the Indian bison, is the world's largest bovine and Bihar's state animal. It is easily recognizable with its strong build and distinctive white-stockinged legs. These large herbivores can be seen moving in large herds while grazing in the forest. Sometimes, tigers are known to prey on gaurs. The IUCN Red List classifies the species as Vulnerable. Habitat loss is one of the biggest threats to the species.

Where to see: Valmiki Tiger Reserve

White-rumped Vulture (Gyps bengalensis)

A white-rumped vulture. Image credit: Ravi.sangeetha via Wikimedia Commons.

The White-rumped Vulture, once one of the most common scavengers in India, is now critically endangered due to the use of the veterinary drug diclofenac, which poisoned their food supply. These vultures play an essential ecological role as nature's clean-up crew, preventing the spread of diseases by feeding on carcasses.

Where to see: Kanwar Lake Bird Sanctuary

Indian Python (Python molurus)

An Indian python coiled on a log. Image credit: Karunakar Rayker from India via Wikimedia Commons.

The Indian Python is a large, non-venomous snake that can grow up to six meters long. It kills animals by constricting them in its strong grasp, breaking their bones, suffocating them, and then swallowing them whole. Its diet ranges from mammals and birds to other reptiles. These snakes are often found near rivers, swamps, and dense forests of Bihar, but they are threatened by illegal hunting for their skin.

Where to see: Bhimbandh Wildlife Sanctuary, wetlands and forests of Valmiki, and areas along the Ganga river basin.

Gangetic Dolphin (Platanista gangetica)

A Ganges River dolphin. Image credit: Munshi Abul Barakat via Wikimedia Commons.

The Gangetic Dolphin, also called Susu, is India's national aquatic animal and Bihar's pride. It is a freshwater dolphin that uses echolocation to navigate in murky waters. Bihar, particularly the Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary in Bhagalpur, is one of its strongholds. The species is endangered due to water pollution, dams, and as bycatch in fishing.

Where to see: Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary

10 Animals Found In The Chambal River

The Chambal River is simply incredible. There is no river like it in terms of mystery, history, and biodiversity. The river, said to be cursed by Queen Draupadi and haunted by notorious dacoits, is today home to many species of highly threatened wildlife. Ten of these have been mentioned below.

Gharial

Gharial (Gavialis gangeticus) male, Chambal River, UP, India. Image credit: Charles J. Sharp via Wikimedia Commons.

Of course, the world's most threatened crocodilian is the flagship species of the Chambal. The river is home to over 80% of the population of this species. The gharial is critically endangered and endemic to the Indian subcontinent. It has been wiped out from more than 90% of its historical range as it is susceptible to water quality changes and riverine ecosystem disturbances. Hence, it is a good indicator species for detecting changes in the health of the aquatic ecosystem it inhabits. Gharials are primarily fish-eating reptiles and are hardly known to attack people. Males of this species possess an earthen pot-like (called 'ghara' in the local language) protrusion at the tip of their snouts, giving the species its name, "gharial."

Indian Skimmer

Indian skimmers skimming through the waters in search of food. Image credit: The Belurs via Flickr.com.

The Indian skimmer, an endangered bird that now breeds only in India, has Chambal as its last stronghold. The bird is beautiful in appearance with a striking orange bill with yellow tips. The lower mandible is longer than the upper one and is used to skim fish from the water while flying close to the water's surface. This bird lays eggs in scraped-out nests in the sand in sand bars of the Chambal River. These nests are highly vulnerable to changes in water level. Hence, when dams along the Chambal suddenly release water, it might drown the nests of these skimmers. If the water level is too low due to dry and hot weather, such sand bars can get connected to the bank, allowing predators, cattle, and people to access the nesting area, leading to the death of chicks due to predation or trampling of the nests. Illegal sand mining also threatens the riverine ecosystem on which these birds depend.

Mugger

A mugger crocodile walking towards the Chambal River. Image credit: Arjun Bharioke via Wikimedia Commons.

The mugger crocodile, a vulnerable species, also thrives in the Chambal River. It is a mid-sized, broad-snouted crocodilian found in freshwater systems like rivers and lakes. It is widely distributed across freshwater ecosystems in India and is sometimes responsible for attacks on humans. Though more resilient than the gharials, this species is also susceptible to disturbances in the ecosystem. 

Red-crowned Roofed Turtle

An adult male red-crowned roof turtle in the National Chambal Sanctuary. Image credit: Hari arcw via Wikimedia Commons.

This critically endangered species, endemic to South Asia, also relies on the Chambal River for its survival. During the breeding season, males of this species get a red, blue, and yellow colouration on their heads. This turtle is threatened by river damming, pollution, death as a result of bycatch in fishing nets, poaching for eggs and meat, sand mining, and more.

Black-bellied Tern

Black-bellied tern at the National Chambal Sanctuary in Morena, Madhya Pradesh. Image credit: Godbolemandar via Wikimedia Commons.

A beautiful bird, this species is identified by its black belly and deeply forked tail. It is found near major rivers of the Indian subcontinent, with the Chambal being a significant breeding ground. Like the Indian skimmer, this bird nests on the sand and faces similar threats. 

Ganges River Dolphin

A Ganges river dolphin. Image credit: Munshi Abul Barakat via Wikimedia Commons.

Another fast-disappearing riverine species, the Ganges river dolphin, is also found in the Chambal River. This endangered species is the "National Aquatic Animal" of India. The species is heavily threatened by habitat fragmentation, bycatch fishing deaths, poaching, river pollution, disturbance caused by navigation, and more.

Smooth-coated Otter

Smooth-coated otters. Image credit: Mprasannak via Wikimedia Commons.

Their mischievous acts are a pleasure to watch along the river's banks. These otters are intelligent, social animals that hunt, groom, and play along the Chambal. The vulnerable species is threatened by pollution, habitat loss, poaching and illegal wildlife trade.

Sarus Crane

Sarus crane pair. Image credit: Ad031259 via Wikimedia Commons.

Regarded as symbols of marital bliss, the sarus cranes are much loved and revered. They form long-lasting mating pairs, with one partner known to mourn the death of the other. These birds are also elegant in appearance and are the tallest among the flying birds. They have a greyish body with a deep red patch covering their neck and head. The species is listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List. The bird is found in the wetlands along the Chambal River. 

Three-striped Roofed Turtle

Three-striped roofed turtle in the National Chambal Sanctuary. Image credit: Hari arcw via Wikimedia Commons.

Like the red-crowned roofed turtle, this critically endangered species finds its last hope in the Chambal. In the river, the species' distribution is now highly limited to only around a 100 km stretch. In 2018, 500 nests of the species were detected in the Chambal.

Indian Wolf

An Indian wolf in the wilderness. Image credit: Dhaval Vargiya via Wikimedia Commons.

In 2024, good news came in when the Indian wolf was spotted on a camera trap in the National Chambal Sanctuary after a gap of over two decades! It was spotted at the Etawah-Agra border. An endangered species, the Indian wolf had become rarer to spot over time in the country due to a severe decline in numbers. Hope its population in Chambal stabilises and thrives in the scrub jungles and ravines along the river's banks.

11 Primates Found In Northeast India

Northeast India is still one of the country's wildest, greenest, and most picturesque regions. It is also brimming with life forms of all kinds living across its many ecosystems. Northeast India is especially famous for its primate diversity, housing 11 of the 24 primate species found in the country. Here is a list of these 11 species. Make sure to travel to this part of India to tick off as many of these primates as possible from your list of species to see!

Capped Langur - Vulnerable

A capped langur female with a baby in the Hollongapar Gibbon Sanctuary, Assam, India. Image credit: Krunal Desai - Wildlife Photography via Wikimedia Commons

A beautiful primate, the Trachypithecus pileatus is also another species whose distribution in India is limited to the Northeastern states. Outside India, it is found in Bhutan, Bangladesh, Myanmar, and China.

The species is highly arboreal and diurnal. Its diet consists primarily of leaves of various plant species. It occurs in a variety of forests, including subtropical, broadleaved, and bamboo. Large-scale habitat loss threatens the capped langurs in India. Jhum cultivation, monoculture plantations, logging, etc., destroy their forests. The species is thus listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List.

Assamese Macaque - Near Threatened

An Assamese macaque. Image credit: Charles J. Sharp via Wikimedia Commons.

The Assamese macaque or Macaca assamensis is a Near-Threatened species found in the Himalayas, from Uttarakhand to Nepal, Bhutan, and the Northeast Indian states. Its eastern range stretches from Bangladesh to parts of China and Southeast Asia. The macaque lives at elevations between 200 m and 3,000 m. The species is omnivorous and diurnal. It prefers living in dense primary forests. It spends time on both trees and the ground. In northeast India, the major threats to the species are deforestation and hunting despite the species being protected by law. Some superstitious beliefs, like the use of the skulls of these monkeys as an "evil eye protector" in front of homes, have led to their killing by the locals.

Stump-tailed Macaque - Vulnerable

A stump-tailed macaque at the Hollongapar Gibbon Sanctuary, Assam, India. Image credit: Rohit Naniwadekar via Wikimedia Commons

In India, this primate species, Macaca arctoides, is found only in the northeastern states. Its range extends eastwards into China and parts of Southeast Asia. Its elevation range is from 50 m to 2,800 m.

The stump-tailed macaque is an omnivore. It is a diurnal species that spends around 80% of its time feeding. It prefers living in dense tropical forests but can also adapt to living in secondary forests and forests near human habitation. It is known to be a good swimmer but prefers a terrestrial life.

In northeast India, jhum cultivation or slash-and-burn cultivation is a major threat to its habitat. Hunting is also another threat where the animal is treated as a pest and killed.

Northern Pig-tailed Macaque - Vulnerable

A northern pig-tailed macaque female with child. Image credit: JJ Harrison (https://www.jjharrison.com.au/), via Wikimedia Commons

A Vulnerable species, the Macaca leonina, is another species found in only the Northeast of India. Its range extends further east into Bangladesh, Myanmar, China, and parts of Southeast Asia. It inhabits elevations from 50 to 2,000 m. These monkeys feed on plant parts but are mainly frugivorous. They are highly arboreal and come down to the ground when crossing forest gaps or for foraging in crop fields. They inhabit tropical evergreen and semi-evergreen forests. Like the other species on this list, deforestation and hunting also threaten the northern pig-tailed macaque.

Arunachal Macaque - Endangered

Arunachal macaque on a camera trap in Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary. Image credit: Nandini Velho via Wikimedia Commons.

A newly described species, the Macaca munzala, is designated as Endangered on the IUCN Red List. It is believed to be endemic to Arunachal Pradesh in India. It occurs in a wide variety of habitats, including degraded broadleaf and scrub forests, farmlands, and conifer forests. It is found close to human habitations and seems relatively tolerant of humans. The major threats to this species are its limited distribution, persecution by humans, and loss of habitat. There are only about 200 to 250 mature individuals of this species.

White-cheeked Macaque - Endangered

A white-cheeked macaque peeping out from the trees in Walong, Arunachal Pradesh, India. Image credit: Dibyendu Ash via Wikimedia Commons

This primate species, Macaca leucogenys, also has a limited distribution. It is found in India and China. In India, it is found only in a small part of Arunachal Pradesh. It is found at elevations ranging from 1300 to 2,700 m. As per IUCN, it is found in tropical forests, evergreen broadleaved forests, and mixed broadleaved coniferous forests. Hunting and habitat loss due to jhum cultivation and cardamom plantations threaten the species in India. It is an Endangered species on the IUCN Red List.

Golden Langur - Endangered

Golden langur female and child in a forest in Assam. Image credit: Krunal Desai - Wildlife Photography via Wikimedia Commons.

This endangered primate, the Trachypithecus geei, is found only in Assam in northeastern India and parts of the neighbouring country of Bhutan. The species is found across various forest habitats in the region at elevations ranging from 50 to 3,000 m above sea level. It is an arboreal, diurnal, and folivorous animal. While much of its diet is composed of leaves, it also feeds on other plant parts. Loss of habitat is a significant threat, as in the case of all other species described on this list.. Some animals also die due to electrocution and feral dog attacks.

Phayre's Leaf Monkey - Endangered

A Phayre's leaf monkey in Tripura, India. Image credit: Kamrul via Wikimedia Commons.

Found in the Indian states of Assam, Mizoram, and Tripura, and neighbouring countries of Bangladesh and Myanmar, the Trachypithecus phayrei. The primate lives in primary and secondary tropical evergreen, semi-evergreen, and mixed deciduous forests at higher elevations. It is an arboreal and diurnal species. It primarily feeds on plant leaves. Loss of forests to tea estates, rubber plantations, monoculture, human settlements, etc., is a major threat. The species is also hunted for meat and its "gallstones" are used in traditional medical preparations. Due to low numbers and less widespread distribution, the Phayre's Leaf Monkey is designated as Endangered by the IUCN.

Bengal Slow Loris - Endangered

A Bengal slow loris with a baby. Image credit: Wikimedia.com.

The only venomous primate on this list, the Nycticebus bengalensis is unique in all regards. It is a nocturnal primate. It is an omnivore but feeds primarily on plant exudates like nectar. In India, it is found in only the Northeastern states, while its range extends further eastwards into Southeast Asia. It is found in evergreen, semi-evergreen, and mixed deciduous forests. The Bengal slow loris suffers from habitat destruction and hunting. It is hunted for the use of its body parts in traditional medicine and for meat.

Western Hoolock Gibbon - Endangered

A female hoolock gibbon in the Hollongapar Gibbon Sanctuary, Assam, India. Image credit: Krunal Desai - Wildlife Photography via Wikimedia Commons.

The Hoolock hoolock is found in India's Assam and the neighbouring countries of Bangladesh and Myanmar. It is regarded as India's only ape. It is a highly arboreal species that is found in forested habitats. It hardly comes down to the ground. Hence, deforestation is a major threat to the species. Its diet primarily consists of fruits and leaves.

The Hollongapar Gibbon Sanctuary in Assam near Jorhat is dedicated to conserving this species. However, despite the protection, the sanctuary itself is threatened by encroachment, a railway line cutting through it, and possible oil exploration in the area. 

Rhesus Macaque - Least Concern

A rhesus macaque. Image credit: Charlesjsharp via Wikimedia.com.

The only "Least Concern" species on this list, the Macaca mulatta has emerged quite unscathed from the dire forces that have endangered the lives of all the other primates featured here. It is widely distributed across the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia, numbering thousands. Its ability to adapt to living in human-dominated areas has allowed it to thrive. It is omnivorous in nature with a wide diet base ranging from fruits and leaves to garbage dumps and foods donated by people.