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Thomas Marent
Hot spring bathing is a family affair for these Japanese macaques in Nagano, Japan. The hot water is a frequent indulgence for many so-called "snow monkeys," as the practice helps them de-stress and keep warm. For many primates, including Japanese macaques, grooming strengthens bonds between animals. The important skill is passed down from mothers to their young to help them succeed in the highly social groups of between 10 and a hundred animals. These groups are organised around female-led families, which remain in the group for generations and typically pass their status down to their daughters. Males, on the other hand, leave before sexual maturity to find new groups. Macaque mothers keep their infants close, carrying them around frequently through the first year. But they do get help. Males have been known to carry and protect infants, and scientists have documented grandmothers helping to raise and even nurse their grandchildren.
The alligator bug, photographed here in Colombia, uses the hollow structure on its head to trick predators into thinking it’s a reptile.
Aye-ayes, like this one in Mananara, eastern Madagascar, once had a much larger cousin.
An aye-aye clings to a palm in eastern Madagascar. It was once considered a bad omen to see an aye-aye.
A peanut-head bug is seen in Colombia's Amacayacu National Park.
These plants live in the riverbed year-round, but only show their bright colours when conditions are just right.