UPSC Prelims 2023 Question:

Consider the following fauna:

1. Lion-tailed Macaque
2. Malabar Civet
3. Sambar Deer
   
   

How many of the above are generally nocturnal or most active after sunset?

Explanation:

• Lion-tailed macaque, also known as the wanderoo, thrives in the upper canopy of tropical evergreen rainforests and monsoon forests, at a wide range of elevations, from 330 to 6,000 ft (100–1,850 m). They are endemic to the Western Ghats. Lion-tailed macaques are diurnal and live in groups of 10 to 20 individuals. So, point 1 is not correct.
  
  
• Malabar Civet is a nocturnal and elusive animal. It is endemic to Western Ghats of India. They are mainly found in Wooded plains and hill slopes of evergreen rainforests. So, point 2 is correct.
  
  
• Sambar deer is native to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia and has been a vulnerable species on the IUCN Red List since 2008. Sambar Deer are elusive and most active at dusk and night. So, point 3 is not correct.
  

Therefore, option (1) is the correct answer.

Subject: Environment | Biodiversity and Conservation