Barbary Macaque

Class: Mammals

Order: Primates

Family: Cercopithecidae

Weight: adult males can weigh between 15–19 kg, females – 10–14 kg

Height: 55–75 cm

Body length: 55–75 cm

Coloration: Barbary macaques have fur that ranges from grayish-brown to yellowish-brown. The underside is lighter, sometimes almost white.

Age of sexual maturity: 4–5 years

Gestation period: approximately 5,5 months

Lifespan: about 20 years in the wild, up to 30 years in captivity

Range: North Africa (Morocco, Algeria), with a small population in Gibraltar

Diet: fruits, leaves, insects, small vertebrates

Did you know?

• Barbary macaques are the only primate species, aside from humans, living in Europe (Gibraltar).
• These macaques exhibit complex social behavior and form intricate social groups.
• Barbary macaques are known for their “babysitting”: males often care for infants, even if they are not their own.
• In some regions, the population of Barbary macaques is declining due to habitat loss and illegal wildlife trade.
• Barbary macaques can travel long distances, moving between different habitats in search of food.