
Wild macaques are spotted cooling off along the Jinbian Stream in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, Hunan province. [Photo by Dong Minqin/for chinadaily.com.cn]
As a heatwave swept across Central China's Hunan province, wild macaques were spotted cooling off along the Jinbian Stream in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, where dense woods and clear waters offer a natural escape from the summer heat.
Groups of monkeys rested on rocks in the water, wading through shallow streams and playing among the pebbles. Some mothers were seen carrying their young on their backs as they crossed the water. The playful scenes have drawn visitors to the area, many of whom stopped to watch and take photos of the animals.

Wild macaques are spotted cooling off along the Jinbian Stream in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, Hunan province. [Photo by Dong Minqin/for chinadaily.com.cn]
The park's administration reminded visitors that the macaques are wild animals and should be observed from a distance. Feeding, teasing, or touching the monkeys is not allowed to avoid injury and maintain a safe environment for both visitors and wildlife.
Thanks to the well-preserved ecosystem, the Jinbian Stream area is home to a stable population of wild macaques.

Wild macaques are spotted cooling off along the Jinbian Stream in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, Hunan province. [Photo by Dong Minqin/for chinadaily.com.cn]