The macaque is a genus of Old World monkeys of the subfamily Cercopithecinae. They are native to Asia and North Africa, with some species also found in Gibraltar. Macaques are known for their intelligence and adaptability to various environments, from forests and mountains to urban areas.

Key characteristics include:

– *Size and Appearance:* Macaques vary in size and appearance but generally have stout bodies, relatively short tails, and strong limbs.

– *Diet:* They are omnivorous, eating fruits, leaves, seeds, insects, and small animals.

– *Social Structure:* Macaques live in complex social groups with strict hierarchies. Females typically stay in their birth group, while males leave to join new groups.

– *Species Diversity:* There are over 20 recognized species, including the rhesus macaque, Japanese macaque (snow monkey), and Barbary macaque.

Macaques are often used in scientific research due to their close genetic relationship to humans and their problem-solving abilities.