A macaque licks an ancient stone statue in Ubud Monkey Forest, Bali.
Ubud is renowned as Bali’s cultural hub, and Suci Wenara Wana or Monkey Forest is one of my favourite places in Indonesia.
The forest is a sanctuary for wild macaques, and also features a series of temples with elaborate stone carvings and statues.
The monkeys in Ubud are cheeky and comfortable around human visitors, and it’s fun to watch them and take photos.
I have no idea why this monkey is licking the wall. My best guess is that lichen is growing on the ancient stone, and this macaque is enjoying the salty taste.
He certainly isn’t Monkey Forest’s brightest-looking primate!
