Japanese macaque (snow monkey)At the Detroit ZooThe Japanese macaque habitat at the Detroit Zoo features an artificial hot spring, but things there could get steamy in a whole new way. In May 2013, the Zoo welcomed male Kozo to the all-female population with the goal of breeding and producing offspring. He arrived with a breeding recommendation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) Species Survival Plan in a cooperative effort to foster a healthy and diverse macaque population. Kozo will be bred with one of four suitable females. While there have been male Japanese macaques in the population over the years, there hasn't been a baby macaque born at the Detroit Zoo since 2006. The Japanese macaques, also known as snow monkeys, can often be seen basking in the warm steam from their hot tub and entertaining guests with their playful antics in their habitat next to the lions. Description The Japanese macaque has a stout body, strong limbs and a short tail. Its coat has long, dense fur that varies in color from brown to grey. Each adult has exposed red skin on its face and posterior. Scientific name: Macaca fuscata fuscata Continent: Asia, only in Japan Habitat: Broadleaf, deciduous and evergreen forests Size: 1 to 2 feet; tail can be 2 feet Weight: Males can be 24 pounds; females can be 18 pounds Diet: The Japanese macaque is omnivorous, eating leaves, fruit, berries, seeds, small animals, insects and fungi. Reproduction:Gestation 173 days; single infant Lifespan: 30 years Conservation Status: Least Concern |
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FUN FACTS
The Japanese macaque is thought to display culture, or learned behaviors, by passing on knowledge through a troop and potentially through generations.
The Japanese macaque can be seen sitting in naturally occurring hot springs to avoid extreme winter conditions. |
Detroit Zoo Japanese Macaque in the News
When the air turns cold, there's still plenty to see at the Detroit Zoo, including the snow monkeys.
Zoo director Ron Kagan introduces us to the zoo's troop of monkeys, who can be found lounging in the hot tub during the cold winter months. (Source: MyFox Detroit)
Watch the Japanese macaque feature by Joe Ballor of the Daily Tribune here
