Japanese Macaques

Taken April 11, 2007

Many photographers and researchers have studied the endangered Japanese Macaque Monkeys that live in the Nagano Prefecture. This is because they indulge themselves in the steaming waters of Jigokudani Yaenkoen (Hell’s Valley). All year round they can be seen entering the geothermal springs to bathe and groom. At 850m altitude, the temperature is significantly colder than at sea level, meaning that snow covers the ground here for one third of the year. In winter it is a relief for them to escape the bitterly cold temperatures that can reach as low as -15°C. Japanese Macaques live in social troops of 20-100 individuals and are the most northerly living primates excluding human beings. The geothermal springs at Jigokudani are visited by approximately 250 Macaques.

Categories: All Photographs, Categories, Countries, Japan, Wildlife