Assam: Golden Langur sighting in Barpeta raises conservation alarm

An adult male golden langur (Trachypithecus geei), a species native to western Assam and Bhutan, was spotted in Barpeta town, about 11 km east of its known habitat range. This sighting, documented for the first time in this area, has sparked intrigue and concern among wildlife experts.  

The discovery was made by local resident Bhanita Das around 10 AM while she was engaged in her morning chores. Das, married to Dr. Nabajit Das, a renowned primatologist and Assistant Professor of Zoology at B.H. College, Howly, quickly identified the rare primate. She captured the sighting on her mobile phone, providing vital photographic evidence of this unexpected event.  

The golden langur is typically found west of the Beki River, a natural boundary for the species' habitat. This sighting marks the first recorded instance of the species crossing to the eastern side, raising questions about the factors driving such unusual movement.  

Experts speculate that the langur may have traveled from the degraded forest areas of Bamungaon Reserve Forest or Khoragaon Proposed Reserve Forest in Bongaigaon district, using human settlements and village corridors as pathways. This movement underscores the growing pressures on the species’ natural habitat due to deforestation, human encroachment, and environmental degradation.  

The golden langur, classified as endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), faces significant threats, including habitat loss and limited genetic diversity. This sighting highlights the urgent need for conservation initiatives, habitat restoration, and increased awareness to safeguard the future of this iconic species.

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