‘Sri Lankan Primates: An Enthusiasts’ Guide’ launched

Preserving and nurturing the environment is an important part of the sustainabiiity strategy of Nations Trust Bank. The bank made this commitment together with the WCSC, with their association with the Hiyare Biodiversity Conservation and Education Centre situated in Galle.

Hiyare is a scenic 600 acre rainforest and is home to several endemic and rare species of fauna and flora. The conservation efforts are focused on educational programmes targeted at school children. They also have an animal rescue programme, which is an innovative effort that seeks to provide immediate medical and surgical care for injured wildlife.

The bank funded the study and research on the endangered Southern Purple Faced Leaf Monkey in 2008. The Purple Faced Leaf Monkey project analysed the distribution, feeding ecology and behaviour of the species. As time progressed, the project was combined with the study of other primates in Sri Lanka. During the study, which involved the tracking of some 26 troops, the researchers came across individuals with an unusual white colour which is now known as the white colour morph of the Southern Purple Leaf Monkey – a notable discovery in the history of the primate world.

The researchers have collected valuable data and interesting discoveries have been made which has led to the publication of the book ‘Sri Lankan Primates: An Enthusiasts’ Guide.’ This book written by Madhura De Silva and Nadika Hapuarachchi contains a vivid account of all these details, together with interesting information regarding different primate species in Sri Lanka. The book will prove to be invaluable to nature enthusiasts, students and researchers. Nations Trust Bank is pleased to sponsor its publication and is expected to assist the future generation of wildlife enthusiasts and preserve the natural habitat of the Hiyare residents. Copies of this book are available at all leading bookstores and the proceeds will be utilised for further studies towards primate conservation.

Pix by Daminda Harsha Perera