Sighting of Arunachal Macaque Macaca munzala Sinha et al., 2005 (Mammalia: Primates: Cercopithecidae) in Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary, Bhutan
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Abstract
The endangered Arunachal Macaque Macaca munzala Sinha et al. 2005, described from the Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh, is amongst several discoveries from the region during second millennia. Despite Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary (SWS) sharing pristine habitat along the border with Tawang District of Arunachal Pradesh, presence of the species in this sanctuary remains unknown. Survey was conducted based on direct observation in the sighting sites suggested by the local people and in randomly selected suitable habitats. During the survey, a troop of macaques was sighted at Joenkhar-teng in the mixed broadleaved forest near the Gamri River. On account of our observation, photographs and expert’s comment, we conclude that the species is the Arunachal Macaque Macaca munzala Sinha et al. 2005.
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