Previous Year Question
Consider the following fauna:
Lion-tailed Macaque
Malabar Civet
Sambar Deer
How many of the above are generally nocturnal or most active after sunset?
Only one
Only two
All three
None of these
Correct Answer: B
Detailed Solution
1. Lion-tailed Macaque
The lion-tailed macaque (Macaca silenus) is a day-active or diurnal primate.
It is primarily arboreal and spends most of its time in the upper canopy of the rainforest.
It is endemic to the evergreen forests of the Western Ghats of India.
It is not generally nocturnal; therefore, it will not be included in the count.
2. Malabar Civet
The Malabar civet (Viverra civettina) is considered a primarily nocturnal species.
It is more active after sunset for feeding and other activities.
It is an endemic and extremely rare mammalian species of the Western Ghats of India.
Therefore, it will be included in the count.
3. Sambar Deer
The sambar deer (Rusa unicolor) mainly exhibits crepuscular or nocturnal activity.
It is generally more active for feeding during dusk, night and the early hours of the morning.
During the day, it usually rests in dense forest or shaded areas.
Therefore, it will also be included in the count.
Thus, the Malabar civet and the sambar deer—a total of two animals—are generally nocturnal or more active after sunset.