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Long-tailed macaques

Distribution

Long-tailed macaques (Macaca fascicularis), like Rhesus monkeys, belong to the macaque genus. Their distribution extends from Bangladesh and Myanmar in the west, through Malaysia and Indonesia in the south, to the Philippines. Primatologists currently distinguish ten subspecies of long-tailed macaques, some of which inhabit isolated islands, differing in fur coloration, tail length, and the shape of their cheek hair

Physical Characteristics

One distinctive feature of long-tailed macaques is their brown-gray face with a defined white marking above the eyelids and their characteristic cheek whiskers. Unlike Rhesus macaques, long-tailed macaques have as their name implies very long tails, which can reach up to 70 centimeters, often longer than the animal‘s body. Males are, on average, about ten centimeters longer than females and often weigh twice as much. Additionally, males have significantly larger canine teeth.

Diet

Long-tailed macaques are omnivores but prefer fruits as their main food source. They also consume flowers, leaves, buds, and other plant parts. In addition they also eat insects, and fish. Long-tailed macaques living in coastal areas frequently eat crabs, earning them the nickname "crab-eating macaque."

Habitat and Lifestyle

Long-tailed macaques in rainforests, bamboo forests, and mangrove swamps, typically near water or wetlands. They spend most of their time in trees, descending to the ground mainly to forage. Additionally, they are often found in plantations, gardens, and fields near human settlements. Their home ranges can cover several hundred hectares, and depending on the group size, the monkeys may travel up to two kilometers daily.

Social Behavior and Reproduction

Like all macaque species, long-tailed macaques live in groups of 6 to 60 individuals. These groups consist of multiple males, females, and juveniles organized in strict hierarchies. The social rank within the group influences access to food, grooming, and mating opportunities. Females typically remain in their birth group, while males leave the group upon reaching sexual maturity, roaming with other young males before joining or taking over a new group by displacing a dominant male. Females reach sexual maturity at around three and a half years, while males usually mature between five and six years. Mating and births occur year-round but peak during the rainy season, from May to July. After a gestation period of 160 to 168 days, the female gives birth to a single infant weighing 300 to 600 grams, which she nurses for nine to 22 months. Newborns are notable for their dark brown fur, which lightens after two to three months.

Long-tailed Macaques in Research

Long-tailed macaques are the most commonly used primate species in research worldwide. They are primarily utilized in infection research and pharmaceutical studies for testing the efficacy and safety of new medications. At the German Primate Center, our breeding colony is currently being established. Our small group is primarily used for behavioral observations at this time.