Habitat:
Tropical forests, urban areas, agricultural areas

Activity period :
Primarily active during the day, with peak activity in the morning and late afternoon.

Identification and description:
The Macaca sinica, commonly known as the toque macaque, is a primate species endemic to Sri Lanka. Recognizable by its tuft of hair on the top of its head, this monkey has a golden-brown coat with a lighter belly. It primarily inhabits tropical forests but also adapts to urban and agricultural areas. Highly social, it lives in hierarchical groups where females dominate. Its diet is omnivorous, consisting of fruits, leaves, insects, and occasionally small vertebrates. Unfortunately, deforestation and human expansion threaten its natural habitat, classifying it as vulnerable according to the IUCN.

Recommended lens:
400 mm – adjust based on distance, desired framing (portrait or habitat), and approach conditions.

Photography tips:
To photograph the Macaca sinica, it is advisable to use a telephoto lens of at least 400mm to capture detailed images from a distance. These monkeys are suspicious, so it's important to remain discreet and patient. Look for them in tropical forests or even in urban areas of Sri Lanka. Take advantage of the natural light in the morning or afternoon for well-lit shots. Avoid sudden movements to prevent scaring them and always maintain a safe distance of at least 10 meters.