Fauna
Mammal

Bonnet Macaque

Macaca radiata

Also known as Zati, Indian Bonnet Macaque, South Indian Macaque

Bonnet macaques are recognized by the distinctive whorl of dark hair radiating outward from the center of their crown like a neat cap. These highly social primates live in complex hierarchical troops that thrive across diverse habitats, from tropical evergreen forests to bustling temple grounds and urban roadsides. Their quick intelligence and opportunistic habits allow them to exploit both natural forest foods and human resources.

DiurnalSocialEndemic
Bonnet Macaque reference1 / 7
(c) Stefano Menchetti, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA), uploaded by Stefano Menchetti · cc-by-sa
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VulnerableConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXVulnerableRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & preyFruits, Insects, Seeds
Predators
  • Leopard
  • Dhole
  • Indian Python
ThreatsHabitat loss, human conflict, and competitive displacement by expanding rhesus macaque populations
HabitatsDeciduous and evergreen forests, agricultural lands, urban areas, and temple complexes
Life span20–30 years
Classification
  1. FamilyCercopithecidae
  2. SpeciesMacaca radiata
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskModerate
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is moderate
May bite or scratch if cornered or enticed with food; keep a safe distance.
Why it is dangerous
Bites and scratches can inflict severe physical wounds and transmit pathogens like rabies, tetanus, and herpes B virus.
How to recognize a risky encounter
Look for a central whorl of dark hair on top of the head, a brownish coat, long tail, and bare pink face.
What to do
Never feed macaques by hand or enter the center of a troop; slowly retreat if individuals act aggressive.
What to notice
Recognizable by the radiatively parted cap of hair, medium build, and social grouping in forest and suburban edges.
Support conservation
Refrain from feeding or habituating wild troops to protect both humans and wild macaque populations.
Responsible observation
  • Observe from a distance: Maintain space and avoid direct eye contact, which macaques interpret as a threat.
  • Secure food items: Keep food and shiny objects packed away to prevent aggressive bold behavior.
  • Recognize warnings: Open-mouth stares, lunges, and ground-slapping are signals to back away slowly.
Related species
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