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Sulawesi crested macaque
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Sulawesi crested macaque
Sulawesi crested macaques primarily live in lowland and montane forests, but they can also be found in coastal mangroves and agricultural areas. These primates are both arboreal and terrestrial, spending much of their time foraging on the forest floor, where they eat fruits, seeds, leaves, and small animals. Their habitat is crucial for their survival, as it provides them with food, shelter, and opportunities for social interaction. However, deforestation and habitat loss due to agriculture and human expansion pose a significant threat to their population, making conservation efforts essential for their continued existence.
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Flock
Sulawesi crested macaques have a complex and highly social structure centered around large groups of both males and females, which can range from 10 to over 80 individuals. These primates have a strict dominance hierarchy, where males compete for rank through displays of aggression and strength, while females inherit their social status from their mothers. Despite the competitive nature of male interactions, celebes macaques are also known for their strong social bonds, which they reinforce through frequent grooming and physical contact. They use a combination of facial expressions, vocalizations, and body language to express emotions and maintain harmony within the group. Their highly social nature helps them cooperate in food gathering, protection from predators, and raising offspring, making social bonds an essential part of their survival.
Sulawesi crested macaques at Tangen zoo
In Tangen Zoo, we have three Celebes macaques named Tarzan, ET, and Jane. Tarzan is the leader of the group and the only male we have. ET and Jane are the two females in the park. ET got her name due to an injury in one of her fingers, causing it to point straight out all the time, much like the iconic scene in the movie ET.
Status: Critically endangered
Last assessed: November 23, 2015
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​The Celebes macaque is classified as critically endangered, and the main reason for this is the destruction of their natural habitat on Sulawesi in Indonesia. Large forest areas are being lost due to logging, agriculture, and the establishment of palm oil plantations. In addition, the macaques are heavily hunted for both meat and as pets, leading to a significant decline in their population. They also often come into conflict with humans, as they are considered pests in agricultural areas and are therefore pursued by farmers.
IUCN- Red list
Did you know?
Tail
In contrast to other monkeys, whose tails are more prominent and easily visible, Celebes macaques have tails that are reduced in size and can be partially concealed by their fur.
Teeth
Males have prominent canine teeth that are larger than those of the females.​
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Rump
Males have a small, heart-shaped, pink rump, while females have a larger, rounder, and more intensely pink rump.
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