A viral video that has been circulating on TikTok and Instagram has captured the attention of millions, showing a macaque sprinting in a way that closely resembles human running. The primate, using only its two hind legs, moves with a form that looks strikingly similar to that of a professional sprinter.
What makes the video even more intriguing is that the macaque appears to have an incomplete or missing arm, which may have influenced its adaptation to running solely on its hind legs.
The Instagram account @travly, which uploaded the video, captioned it: “This macaque was seen ‘sprinting like a human’ in Indonesia 😮😂.”
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The clip sparked a wave of reactions from viewers, ranging from amusement to awe. One user humorously commented, “He’s cute BUT if he sprinted that fast towards me, my soul would literally dissipate.” Another wrote, “Running like a dad who spotted his daughter’s boyfriend.”
However, some users pointed out that the macaque’s unique way of running might be an adaptation rather than just an unusual quirk.
One Instagram user, @only_just_damha, commented, “More like adapting because he is missing one of his arms.”
This perspective received many replies, with one agreeing, “It’s still pretty remarkable though that he was able to make that adaptation. Amazing stuff.”
The Intelligence of Macaques and Their Adaptability
In an explanation shared by the Facebook page Jejak Fauna, which frequently uploads videos about animals, it was revealed that a macaque in a wildlife park has amazed netizens with its remarkable adaptation. This primate has learned to walk upright and even sprint using only its hind legs after losing one of its arms for unknown reasons.
Rather than being hindered by its limitation, the macaque has adapted by relying on its strong survival instincts. By mastering balance on both legs, it has developed a unique way of moving—an impressive feat that requires not only physical adjustments but also sharp problem-solving skills.
Although it is not entirely certain whether this macaque runs on two legs purely due to its missing arm, one thing is clear: macaques are highly intelligent and adaptable primates.
They are found in a variety of environments, including coastal areas, grasslands, dense forests, and even human settlements, where they have learned to interact with people in surprising ways.
A fascinating study conducted by researchers from the University of Lethbridge, Canada, and published in the Royal Society Science Journal, sheds light on the problem-solving abilities of macaques—particularly the macaques of Uluwatu, Bali.
These primates have developed an extraordinary skill: they intentionally steal valuable items from tourists, such as cell phones and wallets, rather than less important objects like empty plastic bottles or accessories.
As reported by The Guardian, researcher Jean-Baptiste Leca said, “The macaques are becoming increasingly adept at judging what they should and shouldn’t take. They generally target visitors who ignore the officer’s advice to keep their valuables in their bags.”
How Macaques Use Their Intelligence to Interact with Humans
The study also revealed that these macaques seem to have an instinct for identifying which items are most valuable to their owners.
Once they snatch a prized possession, they refuse to return it until the owner offers them food in exchange. This ability is not just a random behaviour—it appears to be a learned strategy that has been passed down over generations of macaques living in the popular tourist area.
Researchers spent 273 days recording the behaviour of these macaques in Uluwatu and observed that the primates had refined their skills over time, improving their ability to assess the importance of stolen items. They use this knowledge to maximize their chances of receiving better rewards.
The macaque from the viral sprinting video may not have been trying to steal anything, but it certainly showcased another remarkable aspect of the species—their ability to adapt to physical challenges in unique ways.
Whether running like a human or using clever tactics to obtain food, macaques continue to prove themselves as one of the most resourceful primates in the animal kingdom.
Cover: Photo by Yan Krukau/Pexels
