2024-09-28
Did you know that Gibraltar is home to Europe’s only colony of wild primates? They are the Gibraltar Monkeys, also known as short-tailed monkeys, Berber monkeys or Barbary monkeys.
In fact, because they are so rare and unusual, these friendly animais have become one of Gibraltar’s tourist attractions.
So, if you’re thinking of visiting the British Rock, I’ve prepared this article as a good practice guide for those who want to see the monkeys of Gibraltar.
This is because we must always bear in mind that these animals are wild and need protection. In other words, it is possible to enjoy this unique moment, which is meeting animals in the wild, in a responsible and conscious way.
After all, we don’t want our behavior, whether out of ignorance or convenience, to contribute to the disappearance of this wilder side of Gilbraltar.
So read on and find out which are the best places to see monkeys, what rules you should follow when interacting with them, curiosities about their behavior and much more.
Everything you need to know about the Monkeys of Gibraltar
What is the History of the Monkeys of Gibraltar?
It is believed that the monkeys came from North Africa brought by the Moors or the British many centuries ago.
Over the years, these friendly animals have become one of the most photographed symbols of Gibraltar.
Where is the best place to see Monkeys in Gibraltar?
The best place to see the Monkeys in Gibraltar is in the Gibraltar Nature Reserve, as it is a protected area. It is also the place where they live freely.
The Gibraltar Nature Reserve includes the upper area of the rock, so for visitors, it’s always uphill!
However, given that they are free-living animals, they are constantly going up and down the protected area. This means that it’s quite normal to see them crossing roads or standing on rocks watching what’s going on.
In any case, if you want to go directly to the place where you are almost guaranteed to see the Gibraltar Apes, then take note of the name Apes’ Den. They are also usually near the cable car, as they are curious animals and there is always movement in that area.
How do the monkeys behave and how do you interact?
Ideally, you shouldn’t interact with the Gibraltar Monkeys! In other words, you can observe them from a distance, but avoid touching or disturbing them.
The truth is that these primates seem friendly because they are used to human presence. But they are wild animals, which means that they can behave unexpectedly and violently.
And because they are curious, they sometimes try to steal what humans take with them. There are stories of cell phones, backpacks, glasses and food being stolen by monkeys from visitors to Gibraltar.
In addition, you should know that feeding monkeys is illegal in Gibraltar and there are heavy fines for those who do so.
The Cultural Importance of the Monkeys of Gibraltar
I’ve already mentioned the tourist importance of the Monkeys of Gibraltar, but did you know that there is a legend associated with the presence of these animals on the Rock?
It may sound like a joke, but according to popular belief, as long as the monkeys live on the Rock, Gibraltar will remain under British control.
In fact, in the Second World War, Winston Churchill ordered that the number of monkeys in Gibraltar be maintained, even if it meant bringing more from Africa, because he also believed that their presence was linked to British rule.
So there is a certain pride on the part of the British in the presence and maintenance of the monkeys on Gibraltarian soil. And for that reason, they are committed to keeping them there.
The funniest thing is that you often see images of these animals on souvenirs such as T-shirts or postcards.
Safety tips for seeing the Monkeys in Gibraltar
As I mentioned before, the monkeys of Gibraltar are very curious and fast wild animals! Therefore, all safety precautions are essential.
Make sure you keep your belongings close to you and be vigilant.
If you see them, don’t turn your back on them and never, ever give them food. Not only is this forbidden, but it can also put the animals’ health at risk.
Also, don’t get too close to the animals or take unnecessary risks.
Curiosities About Gibraltar Monkeys
As I mentioned earlier, Gibraltar monkeys are also known as short-tailed macaques, and this name is a clue to a curious fact about this species.
In other words, these monkeys have no tails, and although they are called “monkeys”, they belong to the group of Old World monkeys, which are known precisely for this unique characteristic.
It is believed that the lack of a tail is an adaptation to Gibraltar’s rocky environment, as it allows them a more stable balance while moving around rocks and trees.
Another curiosity is that Gibraltar monkeys are extremely social. They live in groups of between 10 and 30 individuals, and within these groups, the females are the leaders.
The family ties between them are very strong, and they can be seen taking care of each other, cleaning each other.
In addition, Gibraltarian monkeys are very intelligent and adaptable and this theory is proven by the fact that they have learned to live with humans.
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