The Barbary macaque (Macaca sylvanus), also known as the Barbary ape, is a species of Old World monkey native to the Atlas Mountains of North Africa. However, a small population of barbary macaques also exists in Europe, in the British overseas territory of Gibraltar.
The Barbary macaque population in Gibraltar is the only wild population of this species outside of Africa and is considered to be of high conservation value. The macaques are protected under both UK and EU law, and their population is subject to monitoring and management efforts to ensure their long-term survival.
I’ve been living in this lovely area of Western Andalucia for the last 20 years or so and dedicate most of my time to the running of English language tourist information websites for the towns of Cádiz, Ronda, Grazalema, the famous or infamous Caminito del Rey, and also Wildside Holidays, which promotes sustainable and eco-friendly businesses running wildlife and walking holidays in Spain. My articles contain affiliate links that will help you reserve a hotel, bus, train or activity in the area. You don’t pay more, but by using them you do support this website. Thankyou!