It is the only wild ape in Europe that lives freely, specifically on the Rock of Gibraltar.

The most important populations are located in the mountains of Morocco, and in smaller numbers in Algeria.

They inhabit oak forests, Atlas cedar forests, and fir forests. They also populate rocky biotypes and Mediterranean undergrowth.

They are diurnal and primarily live on the ground. They form numerous, well-organized social groups, led by a strong male. They therefore possess their own hierarchies, habits, and customs.