Primate

Japanese macaque

The Japanese macaque, also known as the “snow monkey,” is a native species of monkey in Japan, known for its baths in hot springs during the winter, a unique practice observed in certain mountainous areas of the country. With its thick fur and its ability to adapt to the harshest winter conditions, it embodies resourcefulness and resilience in the most extreme environments.

The northernmost macaque on Earth

He is well adapted to the cold

With the exception of humans, the Japanese macaque inhabits the mixed forests of the Japanese islands, making it the northernmost primate species. Thanks to its thick fur, this monkey can withstand the harsh winters of Japan: in fact, some populations will even immerse themselves in natural hot springs in the event of extreme cold and abundant snow.

Measuring between 80 and 95 cm in length, with a short tail, the Japanese macaque lives in matrilineal groups, sometimes consisting of dozens of individuals. During the breeding season, their faces and hindquarters turn red. Pairs form but without exclusivity, as mating occurs multiple times with different partners. Females lead the group and never leave it, while males travel and integrate into different social groups. Their diet is omnivorous but primarily vegetarian, varying depending on seasonal availability. The species is not threatened.