Here's why:
* No official census: India doesn't conduct a regular nationwide census for monkey populations.
* Wide distribution: Monkeys are found throughout the country in diverse habitats, making it difficult to track them all.
* Constantly changing numbers: Monkey populations fluctuate due to factors like food availability, habitat loss, and human interactions.
However, here's what we *do* know:
* India has a significant monkey population: Monkeys are a common sight in many parts of India, and they are considered sacred by some religions, which contributes to their protection.
* Some species are endangered: Certain monkey species in India, like the Lion-tailed Macaque and the Golden Langur, are classified as endangered due to habitat loss and poaching.
* Human-monkey conflict: There's increasing conflict between humans and monkeys in urban areas, leading to concerns about their well-being and the potential impact on human populations.
To learn more about specific species and their conservation status, you can check websites like:
* Wildlife Institute of India (WII): They conduct research and conservation efforts on various species, including monkeys.
* The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN): They provide information on the conservation status of various species around the world.
It's important to support organizations working to protect monkeys and their habitats in India.