Black Macaque Facts: Profile, Traits, Range, Adaptation, Size

Geographic Distribution

Wild crested black macaques, also known as the Celebes crested macaques, have a limited geographic distribution, primarily found on two islands in Indonesia. They are native to the northeastern tip of Sulawesi, the largest island in the region, as well as Pulau Bakan, an island located approximately 5 miles from Sulawesi. The population on Pulau Bakan was introduced by humans in 1867, resulting in an isolated population of these primates.

Consistency Across Populations

Despite their geographical isolation, crested black macaques on both Sulawesi and Pulau Bakan exhibit similar morphological, ecological, and behavioral characteristics. This consistency suggests that these populations have maintained similar adaptations and behaviors despite being separated for an extended period. In Sulawesi, they inhabit various nature reserves, including Tankoko Batuyangs-Dua Sudara, Gunung Ambang, Gunung Manambonombo, and the Bunaken Marine National Park.

Research Focus Areas

The majority of crested black macaque populations are concentrated in Tankoko, making it a focal point for research efforts. Many field studies have been conducted in this area, providing valuable insights into the behavior, ecology, and social organization of these primates. Additionally, research has been conducted in the Gunung Sibella Nature Reserve, contributing to our understanding of their natural history and conservation needs.

Knowledge Gaps

Despite ongoing research efforts, there remains limited published information on various aspects of crested black macaque biology. Until recently, there was a lack of comprehensive studies focusing on their behavior, ecology, social dynamics, and reproduction in the wild. Addressing these knowledge gaps is essential for developing effective conservation strategies and ensuring the long-term survival of crested black macaque populations. Continued research and monitoring efforts are necessary to fill these gaps and inform conservation initiatives.

Black Macaque: Names in Different Languages

The black macaque, scientifically known as Macaca nigra, goes by various names in different languages and cultures. In French, it is called cynopithèque nègre or macaque des célèbes, while in Spanish, it is referred to as macaca negra. In Swedish, it may be known as celebesmakak, svart sulawesimakak, or svartapa.

Tail Characteristics

One distinguishing feature of monkeys is their tails, which they typically use for balance, communication, and other functions. However, the black macaque presents a unique challenge in classification due to its tail morphology. While it is technically a monkey, it is sometimes mistaken for an ape because its tail is short and less conspicuous compared to other monkey species.

Tail Variation in Black Macaques

The tails of black macaques are relatively short and inconspicuous, often making them difficult to spot at first glance. Unlike other monkeys, whose tails are more prominent and easily visible, black macaques have tails that are reduced in size and may be partially concealed by their fur. This unique tail morphology adds to the confusion surrounding their classification as monkeys or apes.

Physical Appearance

In addition to their tail morphology, black macaques are characterized by their glossy black fur coats and distinctive crests of hair on their heads. These primates have expressive faces with prominent facial features, including piercing eyes and pronounced muzzles. Their unique appearance sets them apart from other monkey species and contributes to their allure.

Behavioral Traits

Black macaques exhibit complex social behaviors and live in large groups known as troops. Within these troops, individuals form intricate social hierarchies, with dominant individuals exerting control over subordinate members. Despite their small tails, black macaques are agile climbers and spend much of their time foraging for food in the forest canopy.

Research Focus

In recent years, there has been a shift in research focus towards understanding the behavior, ecology, and conservation needs of crested black macaques. Notable researchers working with this species include Timothy O’Brien, Margaret Kinnard, and Barry Rosenbaum. Their work has contributed significantly to expanding our knowledge of these primates and informing conservation efforts.

Habitat Characteristics

The northern peninsula of Sulawesi, where crested black macaques reside, exhibits highly seasonal conditions and is distinguished by its volcanic landscape. Within the Tangkoko Nature Reserve, which serves as a key habitat for these primates, the terrain varies in elevation, ranging up to 5 meters (16 feet) above sea level. The landscape within the reserve comprises diverse habitat types, including severely disturbed and burnt areas, abandoned agricultural plots, secondary forests, and pristine primary forests.

Habitat Utilization

Crested black macaques are adaptable in their habitat use, occupying a range of habitats across Sulawesi and Pulau Bacan. They can be found in areas ranging from small orchards to clear-cut zones. The severity of habitat disturbance influences the composition and structure of the landscape, impacting the distribution and density of macaque populations. Understanding how these primates utilize different habitats and respond to habitat changes is crucial for effective conservation management.

Landscape Dynamics

The degree of habitat disturbance plays a significant role in shaping the floral composition and structure of the landscape. Crested black macaque populations exhibit variations in density and distribution across landscapes with differing levels of disturbance. Studying these landscape dynamics provides valuable insights into the ecological requirements and habitat preferences of crested black macaques, aiding conservation efforts aimed at preserving their natural habitats.

Daily Activity Patterns

Morning and Afternoon Socialization: Socialization among black macaques occurs primarily in the morning and afternoon, during which individuals engage in grooming, playing, and establishing social bonds within the troop. Motivation – Mind – Success – Thinking – Productivity – Happiness

Midday Rest: The middle to midday period is designated for rest, allowing macaques to conserve energy and recuperate before resuming their activities.

Even Distribution of Traveling and Foraging: Traveling, feeding, and foraging activities are evenly distributed throughout the day, indicating a balanced utilization of time and resources by the macaques.

Terrestrial Behavior

Black macaques exhibit predominantly terrestrial behavior, with a significant portion of their day spent on the ground.

Ground Activities: They spend more than 60% of their day on the ground, engaging in various activities such as foraging, socializing, and traveling. Business – Money Making – Marketing – E-commerce

Ground-Based Socialization: Social interactions, including grooming and playing, often occur while on the ground, reinforcing social bonds and group cohesion.

Dietary Habits

Crested black macaques display a diverse diet, consuming a variety of foods to meet their nutritional needs.

Fruit Consumption: While fruit feeding accounts for approximately 5% of their time, black macaques consume a diverse array of foods including seeds, leaves, flowers, buds, herbs, grass seeds, fungi, bird eggs, and small vertebrates.

Elevation Restrictions: Observations suggest that black macaques are typically found below 1250 meters (4101 feet), with the majority of sightings occurring below 700 meters (2296 feet). This elevation restriction may be linked to the availability of fruit, which tends to be more abundant at lower elevations.

Habitat Utilization

Black macaques exhibit specific habitat preferences, which influence their distribution and behavior. Health books, guides, exercises, habits, Diets, and more

Altitudinal Range: They are rarely observed above 1250 meters (4101 feet), with sightings concentrated at elevations below 700 meters (2296 feet). In Tankoko, their range is limited to elevations below 1100 meters (3608 feet).

Habitat Selection: Crested black macaques inhabit a variety of habitats, including lowland and montane primary forests, mangrove areas, and cultivated fields surrounded by forests. They demonstrate adaptability to human-impacted environments but are typically found in low concentrations in disturbed areas.

Group Dynamics and Home Ranges

Group Size and Overlapping Ranges: In Tankoko, the black macaque groups exhibit varying sizes, ranging from 27 to 97 individuals, and their home ranges often overlap with neighboring groups. The average monthly home range size spans from 47 to 130 hectares, with daily average path lengths covering approximately 25 meters.

Access to Primary Forests: Black macaques in Tankoko benefit from access to primary forests, which offer high-quality habitat and abundant fruit resources. Consequently, they spend less time traveling compared to macaques in areas with less favorable habitat conditions. Fitness – Meditation – Diet – Weight Loss – Healthy Living – Yoga

Population Density: The population density of black macaques in Tangoko is estimated to be around 30 individuals per square kilometer. However, in unprotected regions of Sulawesi, population densities are considerably lower, averaging around 3 individuals per square kilometer. In primary forest areas, the density is notably higher, reaching up to 106 individuals per square kilometer, indicating their preference for pristine habitats.

Behavioral Patterns and Fruit Abundance

Impact of Fruit Abundance: During periods of maximum fruit abundance, black macaques exhibit reduced traveling behavior, likely due to the availability of ample food resources within their home ranges. RPM 3.0 – 60% CONVERSION & Money for Affiliate Marketing

Group Size Variation: The average group size in Tangoko is smaller, with approximately 20 groups observed. This variation in group size may reflect differences in resource availability and social dynamics within the population.

Habitat Quality: The availability of primary forest habitats influences the behavior and distribution of black macaques, with higher population densities observed in areas with intact forests. In contrast, macaque populations in logged forests exhibit lower densities, suggesting a preference for undisturbed environments.