Japanese macaques are highly social primates adapted to cold climates. Their welfare in captivity requires appropriate social groups, space, and thermal management.
Japanese macaque welfare in captivity is shaped by their complex social structure and the thermal management requirements of a cold-adapted species in potentially warm zoo climates. The matrilineal social hierarchy of macaque troops means that group composition determines much of individual welfare — animals well-positioned in stable groups have better welfare than subordinates in unstable, conflict-prone groups. Grooming frequency is a welfare indicator — high grooming rates indicate stable, functional social bonds. The hot spring bathing behaviour of wild Japanese macaques cannot be replicated in most zoo settings, but water features and appropriate thermal management address the thermoregulatory needs underlying it. Group size sufficient for diverse social relationships is the primary welfare requirement.