Most macaques are some shade of brown with some grey or white. A few are black. They have hairless faces and cheek pouches. They often have light-colored eyelids which accentuate facial expressions. Many, but not all, have short tails.
Males tend to be somewhat larger than females.
Macaques, like other Old World monkeys, are second only to humans in their ability to use their fingertips and opposable thumbs to manipulate small objects. Macaques can be found in more climates and habitats than any other primate, save humans - ranging from Japan to Morocco. Forest habitats seem to be preferred. All but one macaque species reside in some part of Asia and are quite widespread. Several live in close association with humans.