VMD 512: Zoo/Wild Animal Breeding, Management, Nutrition and Health Care (1+1)

BONNET MACAQUE AND RHESUS MACAQUE

Bonnet macaque (Macaca radiata)

• Medium sized but a long tailed macaque.
• Bonnet of long dark hair radiates in all directions from a whorl on its crown.
• Bonnet does not cover the forehead.
• Sex-skin is present in females esp. around genitalia, anal regions etc.
• Pale-faced animals that are social in nature.
• Social life is based on a well marked dominance hierarchy among the males and live in troops.
• Cheek-pouches are present

Rhesus macaque (Macaca mulatta)

• This is different from Bonnet macaques and significantly shorter tail is present unlike the Bonnet macaques. Hairs radiate backwards from the forehead, without the neat- centre parting.
• Sturdy-build up & are highly aggressive.
• Omnivorous in nature.
• Lives in troops and are present in temple premises also.
• Heavier winter coat provides protection to these animals.
• Cheek pouches are present