Bear macaque on Isla de los Monos

Lago Catemaco is the third largest natural freshwater lake in Mexico; it is located in the state of Veracruz. In Lago Catemaco there are two larger and over ten smaller and very small islands. Macaques, whose species are native to Thailand, live on Isla de los Monos today. We visited the small island by boat and were able to observe and take pictures of the macaques from the lake.

The monkeys are fed and feel so comfortable on the island that they have settled here, although they could also reach the mainland, which is in sight, as good swimmers.

The animals are overweight. Lack of exercise and abundant food supply take their toll.