Barbary macaques

It is a unique experience to meet Barbary macaques, to walk with them and to observe their natural behaviour. Barbary macaques are listed on the red list (IUCN) and are threatened with extinction. The number of Barbary macaques living in the wild is estimated to less than 8000! Affenberg Salem is committed to protect Barbary macaques and is like Noah’s ark for them: a place that ensures their survival.

Barbary macaques live in the mountain regions of Morocco and Algeria. Climatic conditions around Lake Constance are very similar to those of their homeland. This is why, Barbary macaques feel really comfortable at Affenberg Salem and spend the whole year outside. At Affenberg Salem, they move freely and maintain their natural behavior. Here, almost 200 Barbary macaques live on a 50-acre wooded area. The babies are born from spring onwards.

Watch the monkeys being fed and find out all about these fascinating animals! If you listen to information and talks carefully, you can correctly interpret the behaviour of Barbary macaques.

For instance, one of their favourite activities is grooming. However, it is not only about cleaning the dense fur. Instead, it is a gesture of friendship and is their way of expressing affection.

Much of what is known about the behaviour of Barbary macaques, comes from research conducted at Affenberg Salem.