Mother and child take refuge in Sri Ramanasramam during an unusually warm August, where hot and dry conditions have made food and water scarce on the Hill. Grey langurs feed mainly on leaves, fruits, flowers and seeds. They may refuse food offered by humans, though on this occasion a ripe guava was readily accepted.

In recent decades, Arunachala’s langurs were rarely seen near people, but they are now frequent visitors to Skandasramam, Ramana Nagar and the town. Their great leaps through trees and across buildings are striking to watch. Though generally non-aggressive, they may growl or bare their teeth when approached too closely.

Also known as Hanuman langurs, they are native to the Indian subcontinent. They are recognised by their silvery-grey bodies, dark faces, prominent brows and long, curved tails. Infants have pale faces and remain closely bonded to their mothers. Tradition associates their dark faces and hands with Hanuman, who was burned while setting Lanka ablaze in the Ramayana. —