As birdwatchers we often observe other fascinating animals. On 02 September 2024 at the Kledang Saiong Forest Reserve, Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia, I observed a small social group of Siamang Symphalangus syndactylus feeding on fruit. I often hear their loud, powerful calls, that carry far in the jungle, but I seldom get to see these magnificent, shy primates.
The Siamang is an endangered, arboreal, black-furred gibbon native to the forests of Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand. It is the largest of the gibbons, and can reach twice the size of other gibbons.
Surprisingly, on this occasion, two of the Siamang allowed me to watch them feed openly.
Video link: https://youtu.be/HbXqxQCx3tQ
The troop were feeding on the fruit of the Bischofia javanica. Siamang often feed on young leaves and fruits. They were careful to select only the ripe fruit and not damage the rest. At times the feet were used to assist in feeding (see video at 1.30-2 min).
One of the adults had a juvenile clinging to its back (see video at 2.25 min to the end). I did not observe the juvenile offer the fruit but it was eating something. I had thought possibly a female with a nursing young, but an observation from Baker (2024) needs to be considered: “Unusually amongst primates, male Siamang play a significant role in caring for their young : fully weaned juveniles are carried by adult males during the day, only returning to their mothers at night”. Hence, I am uncertain about the sex of this adult.
The Siamang is endangered due to the destruction of its forest habitat by logging. We need to work together to save these shy, marvellous creatures.
References & Resources:
1. Nick Baker. (2024). Primates of SE Asia – Siamang Symphalangus syndactylus. Ecology Asia. Available at: https://www.ecologyasia.com/verts/mammals/siamang.htm
2. Wikipedia. (2024). Siamang. Available at: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Siamang
