The Macaca nigra, also known as the Sulawesi black monkey or Celebes crested macaque, is a primate species belonging to the Macaca genus. In 2011, this animal gained viral attention for its cute selfies, but it is also recognized for its unique appearance and behavior.
The Sulawesi black monkey, is one of seven macaque species found in Sulawesi, and can only be found in North Sulawesi, particularly in the Tangkoko Nature Reserve and Bitung conservation forest areas. It has a black face and hair, a short 20 cm tail, and a distinct crest on its head that sets it apart from other macaque species. Females of the species have pink, heart-shaped ischial callosities, which become more pronounced during estrus due to hormonal changes.
Physical Characteristics
The distinctive feature of the Sulawesi Black Monkey is its black head with a crest that resembles a punk hairstyle. Unlike other monkeys that usually have long tails, this species has a relatively short tail that is only 20 centimeters long, making it appear as if they have no tail at first glance
Sulawesi black monkeys live in pairs or groups of up to 80 individuals, led by an alpha male at the top of their hierarchy. These primates feed mainly on fruit but also eat leaves and insects, and play a crucial role in seed dispersal, making their existence important for forest survival.
Sulawesi Black Monkey Population
Unfortunately, the population of Sulawesi black monkeys is declining due to hunting and habitat destruction. Hunting is particularly rampant for consumption and cultural practices, and young monkeys are also captured as pets. Deforestation for plantations and settlements also disrupts their habitat.
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has assigned the Sulawesi black monkey a Critical status (Critically Endangered/CR), and it is included in Appendix II by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES). Various efforts have been made to protect the species, including designating it as a protected animal under Minister of Environment and Forestry Regulation No.P.106/2018 and launching conservation programs like Selamatkan The Macaca nigra and the Macaca Nigra Project.
The Sulawesi black monkey is one of Indonesia's many endemic and protected animals, and its decreasing population underscores the need for greater conservation efforts to prevent its extinction.
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