Southern pig-tailed macaque

When it comes to food, their varied diet includes fruits, leaves, insects, and even small vertebrates

Mark Louis Benedict

When it comes to food, their varied diet includes fruits, leaves, insects, and even small vertebrates

Population
50% population decrease in the past 33 years

Its fur, a beautiful tapestry of earthy browns and subtle grays, provides excellent camouflage amidst the dense vegetation of its natural habitat. This species is distinguished not only by its physical attributes but also by the depth of its social structures and behaviors, which mirror the complexity and richness of human societies.

These macaques live in intricately organized groups, where the bonds between individuals underscore a profound sense of community and belonging. The social hierarchy within these groups is well-defined, with a clear chain of command that regulates interactions and maintains order. Such sociality is vital for their survival, enabling them to forage, nurture their young, and defend against predators as a cohesive unit. The intricate relationships and shared experiences within their troops highlight the evolutionary significance of social behaviors in adapting to challenging environments.

One of the most intriguing aspects of the Southern Pig-tailed Macaque’s behavior is its affinity for water. This species exhibits a remarkable comfort with aquatic environments, often venturing into rivers and streams with an enthusiasm seldom seen among primates. This behavior not only showcases their adaptability and curiosity but also signifies their ingenuity in exploiting available resources. Whether for cooling off, foraging for aquatic plants and animals, or simply as a playful activity, their interaction with water sets them apart from many other primate species, offering insights into the diversity of adaptation strategies in the animal kingdom.

The habitat of the Southern Pig-tailed Macaque, however, is under threat due to deforestation, agricultural expansion, and human encroachment. These environmental pressures not only endanger their survival by diminishing their natural habitat but also lead to conflicts with human populations, particularly in areas where their home ranges overlap with agricultural land.

Distribution

Country
Population est.
Status
Year
Comments
Brunei
2022
Indonesia
2022
Kalimantan, Sumatera
Malaysia
2022
Sabah, Peninsular Malaysia, Sarawak
Thailand
2022

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Terrestrial / Aquatic

Altricial / Precocial

Polygamous / Monogamous

Dimorphic (size) / Monomorphic

Active: Diurnal / Nocturnal

Social behavior: Solitary / Pack / Herd / Troops

Diet: Carnivore / Herbivore / Omnivore / Piscivorous / Insectivore

Migratory: Yes / No

Domesticated: Yes / No

Dangerous: Yes / No