Mammals
Crested Black Macaque
Macaca nigra · also called Celebes crested macaque, Sulawesi black macaque
In a nature reserve in northern Sulawesi, a coal-black macaque with a tall crest of hair grins into a camera lens, one of the most famous faces of a critically endangered species.
Overview
The crested black macaque, Macaca nigra, is a Critically Endangered monkey of northern Sulawesi in Indonesia. Its black coat and tall crest, worldwide fame from the 2011 monkey selfie, and heavy hunting for food make it one of the best-known and most threatened macaques.
A famous face in trouble
Although one crested black macaque became an internet celebrity, the species itself has declined steeply and needs protection from hunting.
Status
Critically Endangered, with a decreasing population.
Crested Black Macaque: common questions
Why is the crested black macaque famous?
It became famous in 2011 when one took a series of selfies with a photographer's camera, which led to a debate over who owned the pictures.
Where does the crested black macaque live?
It lives only on the Indonesian island of Sulawesi and a few nearby islands, with its stronghold in the north.
Why is the crested black macaque critically endangered?
It is heavily hunted for meat and has lost forest to clearing.
What does it eat?
It is an omnivore that eats mainly fruit, along with seeds, leaves, insects, and small animals.