Habitat quality and range use of white-headed langurs in Fusui, China

The socioecology of white-headed langurs (Trachypithecus leucocephalus) was studied in Fusui Precious Animal Reserve, Guangxi, China, in 1997/1998. Habitat quality was classified according to the level of human disturbance. Plant species diversity increased with habitat quality. Important foods for the langurs occurred more in high-quality habitat. Home range size varied from 28 to 48 ha, and the home range area per individual decreased as habitat quality increased. Small polygynous langur groups had poorly defended ranges, but large groups defended their ranges intensively. Only harem males were involved in group defence, apparently competing for females by defending their habitat. High-quality habitat was more attractive to females; accordingly, group size increased significantly with habitat quality.