Tuesday, February 10, 2015

THERE’S A MONKEY IN MY HOT TUB!

Everyone enjoys a nice soothing soak in a hot tub. Japanese Macaques like it as well!


Let’s take a look at this very unusual old world monkey. First, how about some information about what distinguishes an old world monkey from a new world monkey? Sounds like a plan! Oh, by the way, this monkey is not endangered.




New world monkeys have flat noses with their nostrils far apart and open to the side. Old world monkeys have a down-facing nose with nostrils closer together and which open downward or forward. Apes and humans are good examples of this type of nose.

As its name implies, the Japanese Macaque is native to Japan. They live farther north than any other non-human primate, in large social groups, which are known as ‘troops.’ There is a degree of sexual dimorphism (difference in size and appearance). Males are a bit larger than females. Also, females enjoy staying in the trees, while the males spend a lot of time on the ground.

Photo credit: Jigokudani Park, Japan, via http://snowjapan.com

Their thick coat is brownish grey in color, and is a contrast to their hairless face and rear, which is red in the adults. Their coat can keep them warm in temperatures as low as -15 degrees Celsius. The adult male lives about 28 years, and the female 32 years. The males can weigh up to 25 pounds and the females approximately 18 pounds or so.


This particular primate has been known to pass on information including the ritual of washing their food in salt water. The bathing in hot tubs was first noticed in the 1970s, and the enjoyment of a warm soak was passed on as well and is now relished by many Macaques who live near the hot springs.

I have found a video for you that speaks directly to the development of the hot tub habit, which is enjoyed by the Japanese Macaques.


Please visit the below sites to learn more about the Japanese Macaque, and thank you for visiting Australian Fantasy Adventures’ Blog.

As always, my thanks to Arkive for some of the pictures and information. 

Enjoy!

Jeanne E. Rogers, Author
The Sword of Demelza
Award Winning Middle Grade Fantasy Where Endangered Animal Heroes Roam the Pages! 



References and citations: 







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