Rhesus Macaque

Rhesus Macaque Latest News

Recently, the standing committee of the National Board for Wildlife (SC-NBWL) has recommended reinstating Rhesus Macaque species of monkeys under Schedule II of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.

About Rhesus Macaque

• The Rhesus macaque (Macaca mulatta) is a species of Old World monkey.
• Appearance: Rhesus macaques are familiar brown primates with red faces and rears. They have close-cropped hair on their heads, which accentuates their very expressive faces.
• Distribution: They are native to India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Nepal, Myanmar, Thailand, Afghanistan, Vietnam, southern China, and some neighboring areas.
• Habitat: They may be found in forests, mangroves, scrub, grasslands, and mountainous regions.
• They also adapt well to human presence and form larger troops in human-dominated landscapes than in forests.
• Diet: Rhesus macaques are omnivorous animals, eating seeds, roots, bark, fruits, and cereals.

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Characteristics of Rhesus Macaques

• Social groups: They live in large groups, often led by a dominant male.
• Lifestyle: These are social, diurnal, and both terrestrial and arboreal animals. 
• Communication: They use vocalizations, facial expressions, and body language.

Conservation Status of Rhesus Macaques

• IUCN: Least Concern
• Wildlife Protection Act of 1972: Schedule II 

Source: IE