Xing Xing, meaning \"star\" in Chinese, is a Tibetan macaque who has become an internet sensation in Zhejiang Province's Daliang Mountain. Missing an arm, she is the sole simian resident of the Yanghu Temple in Ninghai County, Ningbo City.
Xing Xing's journey to the temple was far from easy. Originally engaged in a circus, she was later bought by a villager and released into the wild. Her life took a dramatic turn when she lost her arm in a wild boar trap and stumbled upon the Yanghu Temple. The kind-hearted monk at the temple contacted the local zoo to help remove her collar, providing her with a safe haven.
For over 15 years, Xing Xing has lived alongside an elderly Buddhist nun and monk who care for her daily. Each morning, she begins her day with a meal at the nun's door and returns to the mountain at night. Over the years, Xing Xing has developed remarkable human-like traits; she skillfully shells peanuts and sunflower seeds and often mimics the serene contemplation of her human caretakers, gazing thoughtfully at the distant mountains from her favorite carved stone basin.
Despite her gentle demeanor, Xing Xing retains her wild spirit. She can become defensive if she feels threatened or startled, which can surprise tourists visiting the temple. Fortunately, the nun and monk are well-versed in her nature and ensure that visitors maintain a respectful distance, allowing Xing Xing to feel secure in her sanctuary.
Reference(s):
Bonds beyond species: A nun, a monk and a monkey share a temple
cgtn.com
