Fauna
Mammal

Bengal Sacred Langur

Semnopithecus entellus

Also known as Northern Plains Gray Langur, Hanuman Langur, Sacred Langur, Plains Gray Langur

Sacred langurs move through forest canopies and temple grounds in cohesive troops, leaping across wide canopy gaps with agility stabilized by their exceptionally long tails. They spend cooler morning hours foraging on leaves and wild fruits, retiring to high branches during midday heat for bouts of social grooming and rest. Revered across northern India as living representations of the deity Hanuman, they adapt readily to human landscapes, moving effortlessly between rural village rooftops and dense deciduous forests.

DiurnalArborealSocial
Bengal Sacred Langur reference1 / 7
(c) Ramesh Shenai, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Ramesh Shenai · cc-by
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Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & preyDeciduous tree leaves, Wild figs, Acacia seed pods
Predators
  • Indian Leopard
  • Bengal Tiger
  • Dhole
ThreatsHabitat fragmentation, road mortality, electrocution from power lines, crop retaliation
HabitatsDry deciduous forests, scrublands, cultivated lands, urban settlements
Life span18–25 years
Classification
  1. FamilyCercopithecidae
  2. SpeciesSemnopithecus entellus
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskModerate
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is moderate
Can deliver deep defensive bites if cornered or harassed; observe troop dynamics from a respectful distance.
Why it is dangerous
Large adult males possess long, sharp canines capable of inflicting deep puncture wounds, and bites can transmit viral or bacterial zoonoses.
How to recognize a risky encounter
Look for a slender build, light gray coat, completely black facial skin, and a tail significantly longer than the body.
What to do
Never corner a troop member or attempt to hand-feed them; step back slowly if a langur bares its teeth or grunts.
Responsible observation
  • Viewing distance: Maintain a buffer of at least five meters to prevent defensive threats from troop leaders.
  • Food security: Keep food packed away securely, as urban individuals frequently snatch exposed snacks.
  • Body language: Avoid direct or sustained eye contact, which adult males interpret as a hostile challenge.
Related species
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