Macaca irus is a specie of macaque monkeys that is commonly referred to as the Barbary macaque or the magot. It is a primate species belonging to the Old World monkey family, Cercopithecidae. These monkeys are native to the Atlas Mountains of North Africa and are also found in Gibraltar, where they are the only wild, non-human primate population in Europe.
The Barbary macaque is characterized by a medium-sized body with a long tail and a distinctively bare, pink face. They have a thick, shaggy fur coat which typically ranges from dark brown to gray, providing them with insulation against the harsh mountainous climate they inhabit. Known for their highly social nature, Barbary macaques live in troops or groups of varying size, with each group being led by a dominant male.
These primates are omnivorous, feeding on a wide range of foods including fruits, seeds, leaves, and insects. They are highly adaptable and have been able to survive in diverse environments, from snow-covered mountains to arid deserts.
The Barbary macaque is highly regarded and protected due to its endangered status, facing various threats such as habitat loss, poaching, and the pet trade. These monkeys have also played a significant cultural role throughout history, being symbolically associated with Gibraltar and featuring prominently in local legends and folklore.
Conservation efforts are underway to protect the remaining populations of Macaca irus and ensure their long-term survival in the wild.
