Macaques: Behavioural patterns
The adaptability of the JapaneseMacaques is illustrated by their use of hot volcanic springs to provide relief from the cold winters, by washing dirt off food items such as sweet potatoes and even separating rice grains from dirt by throwing them into water and scooping off the floating grain. This ability to resolve problems is usually mastered by one individual and the behaviour patterns associated with these are spread to all members of the troop.
This ability and readiness to learn from your companions results in the community having shared skills and knowledge, shared ways of doing things - in short, a culture. The word is normally used only in the context of human societies, but the beginnings of a culture can be seen in the way the JapaneseMacaques communicate amongst themselves and organize their communities.
