Warming Winters Impact Snow Monkeys in Japan

(MENAFN) A recent scientific investigation has highlighted how climate change is influencing the winter feeding behavior of wild snow monkeys in Japan.

The study, conducted by a team from the University of Tsukuba and Shinshu University, centered on Japanese macaques inhabiting the mountainous regions near Kamikochi in Nagano Prefecture.

According to a news agency, the team analyzed DNA found in the fecal matter of the monkeys to gain insight into their dietary patterns.

Between 2022 and 2024, researchers discovered that snow monkeys, regardless of their gender or age, regularly consume insects from rivers during the winter months.

This behavior plays a crucial role in their survival when other food sources are limited.

However, the study observed a sharp decline in the variety of aquatic insect species in the monkeys’ feces in February of the previous year.

This drop coincided with average daytime temperatures rising above the freezing point.

Aquatic insects provide essential nourishment, and this reduction may be attributed to difficulties the animals face accessing rivers.

The melting of upstream snow and increasing water levels—both linked to warmer temperatures—may be preventing the monkeys from reaching their food sources.

"Even slight shifts in temperature can transform habitats and influence wildlife behavior," explained Takenaka Masaki, a scientist from the University of Tsukuba.

He emphasized that "more frequent and localized temperature rises caused by climate change" could further disrupt the winter foraging habits of these primates.

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