Natural History Notes

Smooth-coated Otter Larger than the common Oriental Small-clawed Otter, the Smooth-coated Otter ( Lutrogale perspicillata ) can reach over 40 inches in length and weighs up to 20 pounds. It also has a wider geographical distribution, found from India to parts of Indo-China, and down to peninsular Malaysia and Sumatra. Its common name hints to its smooth, almost velvety looking fur which shines in bright sunlight. This species is well adapted for semi aquatic lifestyle with its webbed feet and somewhat flatted tail to propel itself in the water. It favors large rivers far inland where it may be spotted swimming close to river banks, but it had been recorded in coastal waters too.

An adult Dusky Langur with young Aside from the typical primate characteristics, langurs have some features that distinguished them from other primates in Southeast Asia such as their very long tail and somewhat slender appearance. The Dusky Langur is an old world primate inhabiting the tropical rainforest. They are recognized by the white markings around the eyes and over mouth. The young, in contrast, is largely bright orange in colour. Like many animals of the rainforest, they have specialized diet. In case of langurs, their food comprised mainly of leaves, and it is for these reason they are also known as leaf monkey. The Dusky Langur also feed on shoots that they eat directly from the branch or twig of the rainforest trees.

Otter are mammal that belongs to the same group as the weasel (family Mustelidae). They have slender body with relatively long and muscular tail thar helps them swim in the water. The feet consist of five toes, and they are webbed which help them swim more efficiently. But they are also strong enough to enable the otter to move on land as well. The toes are generally equipped with long claws, and they are use with great dexterity to manipulate their prey. Otters are excellent swimmer Otters have small ear and rounded eyes with somewhat triangular shaped nose. The whiskers are quite long, and they are useful to detect prey via vibration. This is especially so in low light condition such as in murky waters. All otters have 32 teeth. A large portion of the teeth are molars that are use to grind their prey which includes crustaceans and fishes. They also have incisors. Otters come in different sizes. The largest is the Giant Otter which grow up to 1.8 m in length. The smallest...

Plantain Squirrel The Plantain Squirrel is a common mammal of the rainforest. This  small mammal has a rufous belly with black and buff lines on flanks. The bushy tail has a rufous tinge at the tip. Plainain Squirrel is regularly seen feeding on bark of the rainforest plants. But it also takes fruits, including cultivated ones. It is usually seen singly, or sometimes in pair. A very active and agile squirrel, it climb trees and jumping among branches of the rainforest trees with ease.