| The Macaques, the most popular and typical ones amongst the Old World monkeys, is one of the most tolerant monkeys among primates. Around 50 taxons exist, which are basically the size of a wire-haired fox terrier. The characteristic feature of this group is the presence of cheek pouches, in which the monkeys accumulate food. Macaques live in groups of about 100 members and can be found from tropical valleys to snow-capped high mountains. Like other types of monkeys, they do not have a fixed season for breeding, the female gives birth to a baby generally one at a time about seven months after mating. The eyes of the newborn are open and it hangs to its mother, clinging onto her from front or the mother holds it in arms wherever they move. Soon, the baby accumulates energy and gains confidence so as to hold onto its mother's back and slowly learns to feed himself and finally becomes a new member of the group. Puberty is reached at the age of three years but grows into full size at 4-5 years of age. The tailless macaques (Macaca sylvanus) is the only monkey, which is found in Europe. Several years back, it migrated from Africa to Gibraltar. According to a belief, as long as the macaque monkeys would stay, Britain shall keep the hold over Strait of Gibraltar. The rhesus macaques (M. milata, or M. rhesus) - is a kind usually found in northern India and it reached Europe along with wandering organ players. In the Hindu religion, monkeys are considered sacred and are treated specially near temples of the Monkey God Hanuman. Rhesus monkeys are widely used for medical research. One can very rarely find medicines or vaccines, used in medical practice, without being tested first on monkeys and the symbol Rh, indicating the Rh factor of blood - are the first two letters of their species name.
Monkeys can be very interesting animals as pets. In particular, it is very convenient to keep capuchin monkeys (Cebus). They are very clever amongst all the New World primates and can be tamed and trained easily. In captivity, monkeys are distinguished by mischief, restlessness and they are curious and many of them exhibit a typical crude temperament and sudden angry outbursts. Till the completion of training they can tend to be much stronger than they appear. While growing, monkeys may start biting and with age, can become quite dangerous. The life span of most of the monkeys (except humanoids) is approximately 15 years but some may live up to 25 years. |
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