Macaque Facts for Kids

Quick facts for kids Macaques

Crab-eating macaque (Macaca fascicularis)
Scientific classification
Kingdom:	Animalia
Phylum:	Chordata
Class:	Mammalia
Order:	Primates
Family:	Cercopithecidae
Subfamily:	Cercopithecinae
Genus:	Macaca

Monkey does selfie: A black crested macaque (Macaca nigra) takes a photo of herself

The macaques are a genus (Macaca) of Old World monkeys of the subfamily Cercopithecinae. The 22 species of macaques live in sub-Saharan Africa, and more widely in Asia. One species is the well-known Gibraltar 'ape'. Macaques are of some interest to human researchers for their social structures, and their usefulness in animal testing, particularly regarding eyesight.

Types
Behavior and social life
Diet
Conservation
Humans
Images for kids
See also

Types

There are over 20 different species of macaques, each with its own distinct appearance and lifestyle. Let's look at a few examples:

Rhesus Macaque (Macaca mulatta): Probably the most well-known macaque, the rhesus macaque is easily recognizable by its reddish-brown fur and the characteristic upward curve of its tail. They're incredibly adaptable and live in a wide range of habitats across South Asia, including India, Nepal, and China. Rhesus macaques are often used in scientific research, and you might even see them in zoos around the world! Their population is estimated to be in the millions.

Japanese Macaque (Macaca fuscata), also known as the Snow Monkey: These amazing monkeys are famous for their ability to survive in extremely cold climates, even bathing in hot springs during winter! They live in the mountainous regions of Japan and have thick, dark brown fur to keep them warm. Their population is estimated to be around 100,000.

Barbary Macaque (Macaca sylvanus): This macaque is unique because it's the only macaque species found in Africa! They live in the Atlas Mountains of Morocco and Algeria. They have a distinctive greyish-brown coat and are slightly smaller than other macaque species. Their population is unfortunately threatened and estimated to be around 8,000.

Lion-tailed Macaque (Macaca silenus): This stunning macaque is found in the Western Ghats mountain range of southern India. It's easily identified by its long, dark mane of hair around its face, which resembles a lion's mane – hence the name! They are critically endangered, with an estimated population of only a few thousand.

Pig-tailed Macaque (Macaca nemestrina): This macaque gets its name from its distinctive, pig-like tail. They are found in Southeast Asia and are known for their intelligence and ability to be trained for various tasks. Their population numbers are difficult to estimate precisely, but they are considered a species of least concern.

Behavior and social life

Macaques are highly social animals, living in complex social groups. These groups can range in size from a few individuals to over 100, depending on the species and the availability of resources. Within the group, there's a strict social hierarchy, with dominant individuals having priority access to food and mates. This hierarchy is often maintained through displays of aggression and dominance, but also through grooming and social bonding.

Macaques are incredibly intelligent and have been observed using tools to obtain food. For example, some macaques have been seen using stones to crack open nuts or using sticks to fish for insects. This tool use is a sign of their advanced cognitive abilities.

Diet

Macaques eat both plants and animals. Their diet varies depending on the species and their environment. They may eat fruits, leaves, seeds, insects, small animals, and even occasionally scavenge for human food.

Conservation

Many macaque species are facing threats due to habitat loss, hunting, and the illegal pet trade. Conservation efforts are crucial to protect these amazing animals and their habitats. Organizations around the world are working to protect macaque populations through habitat preservation, anti-poaching measures, and public awareness campaigns. It's important to remember that these animals play a vital role in their ecosystems and their survival is important for the health of the planet.

Humans

Macaques often live in close proximity to humans, sometimes even in urban areas. This can lead to conflicts, as macaques may raid crops or garbage, or even become aggressive if they feel threatened. However, it's important to remember that macaques are wild animals and should be treated with respect and caution. Never try to approach or feed a wild macaque.