Japanese Macaque
Macaca fuscata
Conservation Status
Least ConcernMammalia · Primates · Cercopithecidae
About
The Japanese macaque, also known as the snow monkey, is a terrestrial Old World monkey species that is native to Japan. Colloquially, they are referred to as "snow monkeys" because some live in areas where snow covers the ground for months each year. No other non-human primate lives farther north, nor in a colder climate. Individuals have brownish grey fur, pinkish-red faces, and short tails. Two subspecies are known.
Fun Fact
Japanese macaques in Nagano famously bathe in volcanic hot springs during winter, and one troop discovered that washing sweet potatoes in seawater improved their taste — a cultural innovation that spread through the group.
Quick Facts
Habitat
Temperate and subtropical forests
Diet
Omnivore
Lifespan
25-30 years
Threats
- Deforestation
- Illegal Logging