Japanese Macaques, also known as “Snow Monkeys” are a species of monkey endemic to Japan. I don’t like referring the Japanese Macaque as the “Snow Monkeys” because this just refers to the Famous Hot Spring Monkeys in Nagano Prefecture. Otherwise, they are just known as Japanese Macaques and they thrive all year long, not just in winter. 

The Japanese Macaques generally have a life span up to 30 years. They typically give birth between the months of April and July for those that are interested in seeing their cute babies a few months later. 

From a lot of the signs posted throughout the park, I learned a lot about the Japanese Macaque. Below are some of the interesting facts I learnt about both their behavior and characteristics.

• At the time of birth, a Japanese Macaque baby weighs about 500g.
• The Japanese Macaque generally stops growing at the 10 year mark.
• Monkeys, like humans have unique fingerprints.
• Their front and hind legs are similar, allowing them to move around so well both on the ground and through the trees.
• Like humans, the monkeys have flat nails which allows them to grab items with ease.
• If you look closely at their rear end, you’ll notice two hard pads. These pads are hard skin like a callus and is used like a cushion while they sit down.
• Apparently the Japanese Macaques have 32 teeth.
• Like squirrels and chipmunks, the Japanese Macaque has a cheek pouch for storing food. 
• The Japanese Macaques are known for their red faces. The red color appears this way because of the blood vessels in the skin around the face. Younger macaques have a white face but it turns red as they grow older and mature.  🐒