Monkey Species · South, Central & Southeast Asia
Rhesus Macaque
One of the best-known Old World monkeys — urban troops across South Asia and a biomedical research history.
By the WARN Research & Conservation TeamChecked against IUCN Red List & CITES sourcesLast updated
In brief
The rhesus macaque (Macaca mulatta) is a hardy Old World monkey from South and Southeast Asia, famous for living alongside people in cities and temples. Olive-brown fur, pale pink face and a short tail distinguish this highly social, matrilineal species.
Rhesus Macaque: At a Glance
| Origin | South, Central & Southeast Asia |
|---|---|
| Size | Medium (5–12 kg) |
| Typical weight | 5–12 kg (11–26 lb); northern males at the upper end |
| Lifespan | 20–30 years (wild); longer in protected settings |
| Coat & markings | Olive-brown agouti fur; pale to pink bare face; short non-prehensile tail |
| Temperament | Bold, adaptable, hierarchical |
| Conservation note | Wild and urban troops need managed coexistence — not pets; CITES Appendix II for international trade |
History & Origins
Rhesus macaques range from Afghanistan through India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand and southern China. They thrive in forest, scrub and increasingly in urban areas where they raid crops and accept handouts. Their role in biomedical research — including the rhesus factor in blood typing — made them globally familiar, though ethical standards for research primates have tightened. Wild populations face habitat loss and human-wildlife conflict as cities expand.
Rhesus Macaque Fun Facts
- Rhesus macaques introduced to Florida and Puerto Rico established feral populations.
- Troops have strict female-led hierarchies passed from mother to daughter.
- They were the first primates in space beyond early human flights.
- The 'Rh factor' in human blood was discovered using rhesus macaque antibodies.
Rhesus Macaque Common Health Issues
Conditions seen more often in this breed, and how owners and vets help manage them. This is general guidance, not veterinary advice — always speak to your vet.
Human-wildlife conflict
Crop raiding and urban scavenging lead to retaliatory killing, electrocution on power lines and vehicle strikes.
Care: Secure waste and food sources; support community coexistence programmes rather than feeding wild troops.
Zoonotic disease risk
Close contact with people increases transmission of herpes B virus and other pathogens in both directions.
Care: Never touch or feed wild macaques; report injured animals to trained wildlife authorities.
Habitat loss
Forest clearance for agriculture and development reduces safe roosting and foraging areas.
Care: Protect connected forest corridors and manage urban green space responsibly.
Monkeys belong in the wild
Monkeys are intelligent, social primates — not pets. The illegal pet trade and habitat loss threaten species from marmosets to macaques. WARN funds anti-trafficking and habitat work for primates in our partner countries.
