Consider the following statements regarding the Lion-tailed Macaque (Macaca silenus):

Question

Consider the following statements regarding the Lion-tailed Macaque (Macaca silenus):

I. It is strictly arboreal in its habits.

II. It is endemic to the Western Ghats.

III. It is classified as "Critically Endangered" on the IUCN Red List and is protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

1. A. I, II and III
2. B. I and II only (Correct answer)
3. C. II and III only
4. D. I and III only

Correct Answer

Option B — I and II only

Detailed Solution & Explanation

The correct answer is I and II only.

Key Points

• Lion-tailed Macaque (Macaca silenus): It is strictly arboreal — it lives and forages almost exclusively in trees (I ✓).
• It is endemic to the Western Ghats of India (II ✓).
• It is classified as "Endangered" (not Critically Endangered) on the IUCN Red List — Statement III is partially incorrect.
• However, it IS protected under Schedule I of WPA.
• Statements I and II are fully correct.