Barbary ape

Barbary Ape (also known as the Barbary Macaque or Magot) is a species of macaque unique to North Africa. It is one of the best-known Old World monkey species.

Taxonomy

The Barbary Ape belongs to the genus Macaca, which is part of the subfamily Cercopithecinae. The scientific name of the Barbary Ape is Macaca sylvanus.

Description

The Barbary Ape is a medium-sized primate with a body length of 45-70 cm and a weight of 7-13 kg. Unlike other macaques, it lacks a tail. Its fur is multicolored, being yellowish-brown to grey with lighter undersides.

Distribution and habitat

The Barbary Ape is native to the Atlas Mountains of Algeria and Morocco along with a small population of unknown origin in Gibraltar. The species prefers areas of rocky ground and can be found up to 2,100 meters above sea level.

Behavior

Barbary Apes are diurnal, active during the day and sleeping at night. They are also known for their matrilineal social structure, where females dominate the group.

Conservation

The Barbary Ape is listed as endangered on the IUCN Red List due to habitat loss, poaching, and pet trade.

In culture

The Barbary Ape has a significant presence in cultural and historical contexts. In Gibraltar, they are considered a tourist attraction and a symbol of British sovereignty.

See also

• List of Old World monkey species
• Primate conservation
• Wildlife of Morocco
• Wildlife of Algeria