Golden langurs avoid humans primarily out of fear and survival instincts. They have learned to associate humans with danger due to habitat loss, past hunting for their fur, and ongoing threats such as deforestation, agriculture expansion, and human infrastructure like roads and power lines. This learned fear is a survival tactic passed down through generations to protect themselves and their families from harm. Additionally, they avoid humans to reduce the risks of poaching, accidents like vehicle collisions, electrocutions, and disease transmission. Their behavior also reflects an adaptation to coexist while minimizing direct contact, ensuring the safety and thriving of their social groups. Conservation efforts that respect their space have helped them thrive in some areas.
