Langur << lahng GUR >> is a group of monkeys that live throughout India and most of Southeast Asia. Langurs are called “leaf-monkeys” because they eat chiefly leaves. The large stomach and intestines of these monkeys give them a potbellied appearance. Otherwise, langurs have a slender body, with a long tail. Their coat may be red, brown, silver, gray, golden, or black.
Adult langurs weigh from 11 to 40 pounds (5 to 18 kilograms). They measure 17 to 31 inches (43 to 79 centimeters) long, not including a 21- to 42-inch (53- to 107-centimeter) tail. Males are larger than females.
Langurs live in habitats ranging from warm, humid swamp forests to cold mountain areas. Almost all species (kinds) live mainly in trees. A few species may spend much of their time on the ground.
Langurs live in groups that typically consist of from 10 to 40 members. Adult female langurs mate about once every two years. A pregnant female carries her young inside her body from 150 to 220 days, depending on the species. She almost always gives birth to one baby, but twins occasionally are born. Langur babies are often brightly colored. Other members of the group may help the mother care for her young.
The clearing of land for farming and lumber production threatens the survival of a number of langur species. Hindus regard some langurs as sacred. For this reason, langurs have long been protected in India.
