Japanese macaque
Macaca fuscata
There is a large group of Japanese macaques here at Highland Wildlife Park. They are sometimes referred to as snow monkeys
Japanese macaques live in large social groups called troops, which have a complex and strict hierarchy.
Males have a changeable social structure due to competition or the arrival of new males. Alpha males can gain high status and mating opportunities. They don't always hold the position for long due to constant challenges.
Female Japanese macaques live in more stable, matrilineal societies. This means that dominance passes down through the maternal line. A daughter will usually inherit a social rank similar to, or just below, her mother's.
Japanese macaques are omnivores with a diverse diet that shifts with the seasons. Fruits, berries, seeds, flowers, and young leaves make up the majority of their intake. But they also consume insects, bird eggs, and even small animals when available.
Their flexibility in their diet allows them to survive in a wide range of habitats. This includes mountainous regions with heavy snowfall, where they are famous for soaking in hot springs.
Population
Stable
Diet
Omnivore
Habitat
Grasslands
Fact file
Japanese macaques are the subject of many Buddhist stories and are represented in the Three Wise Monkeys maxim 'see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil'
Macaques live in troops that can number from 20 to over 100 individuals, organized by a clear dominance hierarchy
They have a thick coat of fur to withstand cold temperatures, and their pinkish-red faces and bottoms are distinctive features
How we're helping
Like all the animals in our care, our Japanese macaques are amazing ambassadors for their relatives in the wild and help hundreds of thousands of people connect with nature every year. They encourage visitors to learn about the threats facing wildlife and the action they can take to help create a world where nature is protected, valued, and loved.
As a wildlife conservation charity, we care for the animals here at the park and work to protect species at risk around the world. From providing expertise in genetics and veterinary health to protecting wild places with local conservation partners, and even restoring threatened species to the wild, we are active where we are needed most.
Find out more about RZSS conservation
13 Jan 2025
Three minute read