Ep 5. The Funkiest Monkeys

In the show Nature season 32 episode 5, titled The Funkiest Monkeys, viewers are taken on a journey through the jungles of Sri Lanka to discover the secret lives of toque macaques. These mischievous monkeys are notorious for their unique behaviors, including their love for bathing in hot springs, their complex social hierarchies, and their preference for feeding on exotic foods.

Narrated by Jane Lynch, the episode begins with stunning shots of the lush Sri Lankan jungle, where the toque macaques frolic and play amongst the trees. Viewers are introduced to the main characters of the story, a group of toque macaques led by the alpha male, King Raja. Raja is a formidable monkey, with a stern demeanor and a fierce determination to protect his tribe.

As the episode unfolds, we follow Raja and his group of macaques on their daily activities, from foraging for food to grooming and socializing with fellow tribe members. We learn about the complex social hierarchy of these monkeys, with each individual playing a specific role in the tribe. The toque macaques are a highly sociable species, and they spend much of their time interacting with one another, from playing and grooming to squabbling and fighting.

One of the most fascinating aspects of the toque macaques' behavior is their love of bathing in hot springs. We see the monkeys lounging and splashing about in the warm waters, which are said to contain healing properties. Scientists are unsure why these monkeys are the only primates in the world to engage in this behavior, but some speculate that it may have something to do with their need to regulate their body temperature in the hot and humid Sri Lankan climate.

Throughout the episode, we also learn about the different types of food that the toque macaques eat. These monkeys have a diverse diet, consisting of a variety of fruits, leaves, and even insects. However, they also have a taste for some unusual foods, such as the nectar of the giant bamboo plant and the flowers of the flame tree.

As the episode draws to a close, we see the toque macaques facing several challenges. The group must navigate their way through dangerous terrain, avoiding predators such as leopards and crocodiles. They also face threats from human activity, such as habitat loss and poaching.

Despite these challenges, the toque macaques continue to thrive in their jungle home, thanks to their resilience and adaptability. The Funkiest Monkeys is a fascinating and engaging look at one of the world's most interesting primate species, and it's sure to leave viewers with a newfound appreciation for these mischievous and lovable creatures.