Japanese macaques – News, Research and Analysis – The Conversation

Japanese macaques or snow monkeys, *Macaca fuscata* to scientists, are a highly social and intelligent species. In wild and free-ranging groups, mothers do not abandon infants. (Brogan M. Stewart)

March 5, 2026

Wild macaques don’t abandon babies. So why did Punch’s mother?

Sarah E. Turner, Concordia University; Brogan M. Stewart, Concordia University; Megan M. Joyce, Concordia University, and Mikaela Gerwing, Concordia University

Japanese macaques are smart social animals. We expect that Punch will be able to learn how to find a place in his monkey group.

A disabled young female macaque named Monmo at the Awajishima Monkey Center in Japan. (Sarah E. Turner)

February 20, 2024

Defying expectations, disabled Japanese macaques survive by adjusting their behaviours and receiving support

Sarah E. Turner, Concordia University; Brogan M. Stewart, Concordia University; Jack Creeggan, Concordia University; Megan M. Joyce, Concordia University; Mikaela Gerwing, Concordia University, and Stephanie Eccles, Concordia University

A community of macaques in Japan has a high rate of disabled individuals who survive with behavioural flexibility and maternal care. Globally, primate disabilities are often related to human causes.

January 31, 2024

Why monkeys attack people – a primate expert explains

Tracie McKinney, University of South Wales

Tourists can do a number of things to avoid dangerous encounters with monkeys.

Research shows that octopuses are sentient, emotional creatures. (Shutterstock)

April 4, 2022

The hidden world of octopus cities and culture shows why it’s wrong to farm them

Kristin Andrews, York University, Canada

Octopus build cities, establish hierarchies and show social group behaviours. Domesticating will mean creating a new kind of octopus, with ecological and ethical implications.

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