Siamangs (Symphalangus syndactylus) are the largest of the gibbon family and are native to the forests of Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand. They are an arboreal species that spend most of their life in trees. With their black fur and large throat sacs, siamangs make a unique addition to any forest.
Physical Traits
The most distinguishing feature of siamangs is their large throat sacs that can be as big as a human head! This sac amplifies their calls which can travel up to two miles through the forest. In addition to this unique feature, siamangs have long arms that easily swing between branches. Their arm span is as wide as 8 feet when fully extended!
Life Span
The average life span of a siamang in the wild is 25-30 years. In captivity, they can live up to 40 years.
Habitat
Siamangs inhabit tropical hill and lowland forests on Sumatra (the westernmost island of Indonesia), Malaysia, and small parts of Thailand. They usually live above 300 meters in altitude but can also be found in lowland areas.
Diet
Siamangs are omnivores who mainly feed on fruits, leaves, flowers, insects, and small vertebrates such as lizards or birds‘ eggs. They supplement their diet with tree sap which they extract using tools made from twigs or leaves.
Reproduction
Unlike other primates, siamangs form permanent pairs for life. Breeding occurs during the wet season when food is more plentiful for both parents and offspring. After a gestation period of about 7 months, females will give birth to one infant at a time; twins are rare but not unheard of! The young will stay with their parents until it reaches maturity at around 4-5 years old.
Conservation Status
The IUCN Red List classifies siamangs as endangered due to habitat loss from deforestation and hunting for bushmeat or pet trade purposes. Conservation efforts have been put in place by various organizations, including zoos and sanctuaries, to protect this species from extinction.
Interesting Facts
- Siamangs use tools such as twigs or leaves to extract tree sap for food!
- The loud calls made by siamangs can travel up to two miles through the forest!
