Species MammalsRhesus Macaque

Rhesus Macaque

Macaca mulatta

Very rareMammal
Illustration of Rhesus Macaque (Macaca mulatta)
Safety note: Wild animals that can bite or charge, and some carry herpes B virus - never approach or feed them.

A wild troop of these Asian monkeys has lived along Florida's Silver River since the 1930s, when a tour operator released a handful on a small island to add jungle atmosphere to boat rides - they promptly swam off. Several hundred now roam the forests of Silver Springs State Park, foraging in the oaks and swimming the river. They are the most famous free-ranging primates in the United States, and a genuine surprise to spot on a Florida paddle.

Habitat
Riverine hardwood forest along the Silver River near Ocala, Florida; feral and non-native
Diet
Fruit, leaves, seeds, and the occasional handout
How common
Very rare

Best time to see a Rhesus Macaque

The best time to see a Rhesus Macaque is January–May, when about 60% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 385 research-grade iNaturalist observations.

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