When encountering a primate in residential neighborhoods, markets, or forests, it’s common to mistakenly label all such animals as “monkeys.” However, macaques and langurs exhibit significant differences in their physical characteristics, dietary habits, and behaviors.
“While langurs are classified as monkeys from a biological perspective, the term ‘monkey’ is often informally reserved for macaques and smaller related species,” states Dr. Vinod Sharma, Director and Head of Veterinary Services at DCC Animal Hospital & Petcare in Gurugram.
To differentiate between the two, one can examine their facial structure, body shape, and tail length. “Macaques typically possess a more compact and robust body, a face that is pinkish or brown, and a comparatively shorter tail,” Dr. Sharma explains. In contrast, langurs usually have a taller, leaner physique, with a distinctive black face, longer limbs, and a lengthy tail covered in grey or light-colored fur.
If you reside in proximity to wooded areas, it’s likely you’ve spotted macaques near houses, markets, or roadways. “Macaques are more inclined to enter urban settings in search of food, rummaging through waste, and accepting handouts from people,” Dr. Sharma says.
While langurs can also approach settlements, particularly when nearby trees or crops provide food, they do so less often and typically do not aggressively seek out food from humans.
Dr. Sharma advises, “If you encounter a monkey or langur, remain calm, keep a safe distance, and ensure the animal has a clear escape path.” It is suggested not to feed, chase, provoke, stare at, or try to touch the animal. Additionally, people should secure food items and plastic bags and keep children and pets at a safe distance. “Avoid approaching a mother with a baby or cornering the animal,” he emphasizes.
In cases where a monkey or langur finds its way into a building, Dr. Sharma recommends leaving doors or windows ajar, if safe, to allow the animal to exit independently. If the primate does not leave, it is better to contact local wildlife authorities instead of attempting to remove it personally.
“If bitten or scratched, thoroughly cleanse the wound and seek immediate medical attention for rabies evaluation and tetanus treatment,” Dr. Sharma advises.
Ultimately, the safest practice is to observe these creatures from a distance, rather than trying to interact with them—even if they seem calm or accustomed to human presence, he concludes.
