Feeding behavior of proboscis monkey (Nasalis larvatus) in Klias Peninsula / Dg Syahidah Nadiah Abdull Majid

Proboscis monkey {Nasalis larvatus) is endemic to Borneo and is listed as an endangered species. Study on the feeding behavior and nutrient composition of food taken by this monkey have been conducted in Klias peninsula within 4 months. The objectives of this study were to determine the feeding behavior of proboscis monkey and to analyze the proximate composition of proboscis monkey food preferences in Klias peninsula. The result of this study showed that there are 11 plant species of plant that consumed by proboscis monkey in Klias peninsula with Ficus microcarpa as the most preferred plant. It contained high dry matter (high water content) and lower crude fiber. Based on the observation made, the peak time of feeding for proboscis monkey is between 0600 am to 0700 am in the morning and 1530 pm to 1630 pm in the late of afternoon. For the plant part preferences, proboscis monkey prefer to consume young leaves rather than mature leaves, shoot, flower, and fruit. This is due to the content of the young leaves which have high water content and lower fibre. All the findings in this study can contribute to better understanding of feeding behavior and proximate content on the plants that eaten by the proboscis monkeys. Such information is useful to ensure their survival in the wild and in captivity.