The Japanese Macaque, also known as the Snow Monkey, is a species of monkey found in Japan. This animal has light brown fur and a pink face. It lives in the northern areas of Japan and is native to the country.
They live in troops and can often be seen foraging, playing, grooming each other, and sometimes even swimming!
Why Are They Called Snow Monkeys?
Japanese Macaques, or ‘Snow Monkeys’, thrive in the coldest parts of Japan. They are unique as the only non-human primates that can endure such frigid conditions.
Thanks to their unique ability to thrive in these conditions, they’ve become a popular tourist attraction in Japan, visible at several locations across the country.
How Do Japanese Macaques Keep Their Bodies Warm?
Besides their thick fur, Japanese Macaques also keep warm by bathing in hot springs.
Locations like Jigokudani Monkey Park are famous for snow monkeys, where visitors can watch Japanese Macaques bathe in the hot springs.
Are Japanese Macaques Smart?
Japanese Macaques are highly intelligent animals that learn and adapt to their environment. Some observations show a female macaque washing a sweet potato before eating it, and others followed suit.
They often engage in complex interactions, including social grooming, vocalizing, and cooperative behaviors.
