Mammal · GBIF taxon 7460229
Purple-faced Langur
Semnopithecus vetulusAlso known as Purple-faced Leaf Monkey
High in the lush canopy of Sri Lanka, purple-faced langurs spend their days traveling through interconnected branches in small, territorial family groups. Specialized multi-chambered stomachs allow them to digest tough, fibrous foliage that constitutes the vast majority of their diet. As rapid urbanization fragments their ancient rainforest homes, these shy primates increasingly navigate dangerous power lines and suburban gardens to reach isolated feeding trees.
ArborealEndemicFolivore
—observations
—countries
—peak records
EndangeredConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXEndangeredRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Tree leaves
- Unripe fruits
- Flowers
Predators
- Sri Lankan Leopard
- Black Eagle
- Reticulated Python
ThreatsHabitat loss, urbanization, power line electrocution, domestic dog attacks
HabitatsTropical rainforests, monsoon forests, suburban forest patches
Life span15–20 years
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- FamilyCercopithecidae
- SpeciesSemnopithecus vetulus
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- Capable of inflicting severe bites if cornered; observe quietly from a safe distance without feeding.
- What to notice
- Recognizable by dark facial skin framed by pale whiskers, a long tail, and a thick dark coat.
- Support conservation
- Maintain a respectful distance of at least 15 meters and refrain from making direct eye contact or loud noises.
Responsible observation
- Canopy Spotting: Look high in mature rainforest trees during early morning hours when troops actively feed.
- Quiet Observation: Keep sound to a minimum and maintain distance to avoid triggering alarm calls or flight.
- Avoid Feeding: Never offer food, as habituation leads to dangerous encounters along suburban forest edges.
Co-occurring Primate 
Close Relative (c) William Stephens, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by William Stephens · cc-by
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