“On the afternoon of 22nd June 2014, while awaiting the closing ceremony of the Fraser’s Hill Bird Race, we were being amused and entertained by a family of White-thighed Leaf Monkeys (Presbytis siamensis), especially their adorable juveniles (above, below).
“While the juveniles were playing amongst themselves and observing us with wide-eyed curiosity, the adults were diligently feeding on the lush growth of morning glory (Ipomoea cairica, family Convolvulaceae) on the hill slope.
Both leaves as well as flowers were consumed with much relish (above, below).
“Video clips of the monkeys feeding leisurely on the morning glory climber may be previewed here:
“Leaf Monkeys may be considered as the ‘cows of the canopy’ in our tropical rainforests and they help to prune the vegetation at the treetops as they go about their daily ‘grazing’ routine.”
Dr. Leong Tzi Ming, Dr. Vilma D’Rozario & Morten Strange
Singapore
4th July 2014
2 Responses
Another primate also consumes large quantities of Morning Glory leaves. In many parts of Singapore, Homo sapiens can often be seen eating Ipomea aquatica.
Yes, like kangkong in chilly blachan.