• ニホンザル
• Macaco japones, macaco de cara roja
• Japanese macaque, snow monkey
Scientific classification:
Domain:Eukaryota
Kingdom:Animalia
Phylum:Chordata
Class:Mammalia
Order:Primates
Suborder:Haplorhini
Infraorder:Simiiformes
Family:Cercopithecidae
Genus:Macaca
Species:M. fuscata
Ueno Zoological Gardens, Taito, Tokyo, Japan
The red-faced macaques, also known as Japanese macaques or snow monkeys, are a major attraction at Ueno Zoo. These primates are known for their distinctive red faces and their ability to adapt to cold climates. Despite their resilience to cold, they struggle with extreme heat, as they do not sweat much. This makes them vulnerable during the hot summer months, where temperatures can exceed 40°C in their current concrete habitat.
To address this, Tokyo’s Ueno Zoo is renovating its “monkey mountain,” originally built in 1932, to create a forest-like enclosure with more shade to help the macaques cope with the summer heat. The new habitat will feature artificial trees and materials that do not retain heat, aiming to improve the animals’ welfare by providing a more natural and comfortable environment. This renovation aligns with global trends in animal welfare, focusing on reducing stress and enhancing the well-being of zoo animals.
Details about the renovation of the “monkey mountain” at Ueno Zoo were sourced from NHK.
Photo Taken: April 12, 2024
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