The rhesus monkey lives in many regions of southern and southeastern Asia, from Afghanistan in the west to Thailand and southern China in the east. It measures from 18 to 25 inches tall. Rhesus monkeys weigh from 9 to 22 pounds and have dull yellow to brown fur. They live both on the ground and in trees in groups of about 5 to more than 100 animals. Rhesus monkeys inhabit a variety of surroundings, including deserts, farm areas, forests, mountains, and swamps. These monkeys also live in villages and in crowded bazaars of large cities. Their food includes buds, fruit, insects, leaves, roots, and various crops.
Many Hindus once regarded rhesus monkeys as sacred. But religious tolerance of the animals has declined because rhesus monkeys destroy crops and other property. Many scientists have called for conservation effort to protect rhesus monkeys. Large numbers have been trapped for use in research and in zoos, and people are occupying more and more land inhabited by the monkeys.
Until 1978, India was the chief exporter of rhesus monkeys. However, India stopped exporting them that year. As a result, there is a growing need in the United States for rhesus monkey breeding colonies
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