Rhesus monkeys (Rhesus macaques) are known to exhibit aggressive behavior and people are commonly advised not to approach them.
November 04, 2025
high
descriptive
General behavioral characteristic and public-safety guidance regarding Rhesus macaques.
Rhesus monkeys (Rhesus macaques) typically weigh about 16 pounds (7.2 kilograms).
November 02, 2025
high
biological
Typical adult body mass for the species used in research and wildlife descriptions.
Rhesus macaques are known to be aggressive.
November 02, 2025
high
behavioral
Aggressive behavior is a commonly noted characteristic relevant to wildlife management and safety considerations.
Rhesus macaques are among the most medically studied animals.
November 02, 2025
high
research
Rhesus macaques are widely used in biomedical and medical research due to biological similarities to humans.
A 2015 U.S. Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) report found that a biosecurity breach at the Tulane primate facility involved at least one staff member failing to adhere to biosafety and infection-control procedures, resulting in the euthanization of three rhesus macaques, and the report said the facility made procedural changes and retrained staff afterward.
January 01, 2015
high
report
Findings from a federal inspection report describing a past biosecurity breach and subsequent corrective actions at a primate research facility.