A striking and charismatic primate native exclusively to the northeastern tip of Sulawesi and nearby small islands in Indonesia. This species is one of the most distinctive of the macaques due to its unique physical appearance and intriguing social behavior.

One of the most notable features of the Celebes crested macaque is its all-black coloration, which covers most of its body, including the fur and skin. This jet-black appearance is contrasted sharply by its pinkish-red rump and facial area, which stand out vividly against its darker fur. Adding to its distinctive look is a crest of long hair on top of the head, which gives this macaque its name. The males typically exhibit a more pronounced crest compared to females, adding to their imposing presence.

Another striking feature of the Celebes crested macaque is its eyes, which are remarkably expressive and surrounded by a seemingly natural ‘eyeliner’ effect due to the bare skin around them. This gives them a captivating and intense gaze. The facial expressions of these macaques are highly animated and play a significant role in their social interactions, which are complex and involve a variety of vocalizations, gestures, and facial movements to communicate.

One fun fact about the Celebes crested macaque is that they are often referred to as the “yaki” by locals. Interestingly, these macaques are known for their bold and sometimes mischievous behavior, particularly in areas where their natural habitats overlap with human settlements, leading them to raid crops and even interact with humans.

Distribution

Country

Population est.

Status

Year

Comments

Indonesia

4,000-6,000

Official estimate

CR

2015

Sulawesi

Indonesia

100,000

Official estimate

CR

2015

Pulau Bacan Island