Credit: Zac Mills, the Wildlife Collective
The southern pig-tailed macaque (Macaca nemestrina) is recognised by its short tail, which it carries arched over its back, looking remarkably like a pig’s tail. They have amber-coloured eyes in contrast to their lighter eyelids, which emphasise their facial expressions to communicate with the rest of the troop.
While the other primate species in Sumatra spend their time in the canopy, these macaques are semi-terrestrial. They trek across the forest floor in large, organised social groups to find their next meal — and they will snack on everything!
Unlike many primates that avoid getting wet, southern pig-tailed macaques are excellent swimmers. They have been seen jumping into rivers to cool off, play, or forage for aquatic snacks.
While males have a hierarchy based on size and strength, the female hierarchy is hereditary. This means a daughter inherits her mother’s social rank, so the daughter of the alpha female will automatically outrank much older, more experienced females in the troop.
These macaques are resourceful and adaptable. But they are at their best when left undisturbed in the deep forest. This brings us back to orangutans.
To protect the orangutan is to protect the entire rainforest. You can help. Donate to SOS and help ensure that every creature, from the tiniest beetle to the southern pig-tailed macaque on the forest floor, thrives.
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