Also known as the bear macaque due to its robust and bear-like appearance, the stump-tailed macaque is a fascinating primate native to the evergreen forests of Southeast Asia, ranging from India to Vietnam and as far south as Malaysia. This species is noted for its distinctive physical appearance; it lacks a tail, hence the name “stump-tailed,” and has a dark, reddish-brown to black coat that becomes grayer as it ages. This thick fur, unusual for a primate, helps it endure the cooler temperatures of its high-altitude habitats.
One of the most striking features of the Stump-tailed macaque is its face, which, devoid of fur, reveals a red to pinkish skin that contrasts vividly with its dark body. As they age, these macaques’ faces and behinds become brighter, a feature that is especially pronounced in dominant individuals. They have relatively short limbs and a sturdy build, giving them a somewhat ungainly walk, but they are surprisingly agile when navigating the dense forest canopies where they spend a great deal of time.
The Stump-tailed macaque’s diet is omnivorous but predominantly frugivorous, favoring a variety of fruits, seeds, and leaves, supplemented by insects, small vertebrates, and even soil on occasion. The latter is believed to help detoxify other ingested foods or provide minerals lacking in their diet. These macaques are crucial for their ecosystems as seed dispersers, aiding the regeneration of their forest homes.
Socially, Stump-tailed macaques live in large groups of up to 40 individuals, although more typically around 10 to 20. These groups are matriarchal, meaning that females generally hold higher ranks than males, and the hierarchy among females is stable. Males, on the other hand, may leave their birth groups upon reaching maturity, leading to a more fluid hierarchy among them. Communication within these groups is complex, involving a range of vocalizations, facial expressions, and body posturing.
Distribution
Bangladesh
Cambodia
China
Official estimate
Hong Kong
India
Laos
Malaysia
Myanmar
Thailand
VietnamAnything we've missed?
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Terrestrial / Aquatic
Altricial / Precocial
Polygamous / Monogamous
Dimorphic (size) / Monomorphic
Active: Diurnal / Nocturnal
Social behavior: Solitary / Pack / Troop
Diet: Carnivore / Frugivore / Omnivore / Piscivorous / Insectivore
Migratory: Yes / No
Domesticated: Yes / No
Dangerous: Yes / No
