Who would have thought that this endemic Bornean primate, once presumed extinct, still survives in the wild? The Kutai Langur (Presbytis canicrus), long believed extinct, was rediscovered and documented in the Wehea Protected Forest in 2012. Subsequent research now shows that this species is not only surviving but also has a population in the Wehea Kelay Landscape, making this area one of the most important strongholds for its survival.
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The Kutai Langur has grey fur on its back and white fur on its belly. The upper part of its face is black, with a white U-shaped marking under its nose that, from a distance, resembles fangs. Furthermore, the white fur on its front resembles a cloak, which has earned it the popular nickname “Dracula Monkey” in certain media.
Kutai Langurs live in groups in the forest canopy and are mostly active during the day. Their diet consists primarily of young leaves, fruits, flowers, seeds, and occasionally plant shoots. They are known for their calls, which include grunts, growls, and short screeches used to communicate with group members or to mark territory.
In the wild, they are estimated to live around 20 to 25 years. Females usually give birth to one infant every 1 to 2 years, resulting in only 8 to 12 offspring in their reproductive lifetime. The slow reproductive rate of this species makes preserving intact forests, such as the Wehea Kelay Landscape, crucial to ensuring its survival for future generations.
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