On an otherwise ordinary Tuesday, the green tranquility of Phra Nakhon Khiri Park was disrupted by an unusual visitor. Provincial governor Natthachai Nampoolsuksan took time out from bureaucratic paperwork to address an increasingly pesky issue; the long-tailed macaques, also commonly referred to as crab-eating macaques. Hidden behind their innocent facade, these monkeys were actually causing quite the commotion!
The seemingly benign monkey species have been leaving locals in constant disarray with their not-so-admirable antics. Macaques around the neighbourhood have often been caught red-handed in various mischief such as food theft, pawing at and stealing bags, and in some extreme instances, resorting to unprovoked biting incidents. The severity of their actions has escalated to the point where locals have felt the need for home confinement of children and the installation of steel fences to safeguard their properties, according to Natthachai.
The governor pointed out that the monkey population in the Phetchaburi province was far from depleting. A formidable count of around 20,000 was recorded in the bustling Muang district alone which is a highly sought tourist attraction courtesy of its celebrated landmarks, the Phra Nakhon Khiri Historical Park and the mesmerizing Khao Luang Cave. And, in every other district within the same province, the numbers ranged from a daunting 1,000 to 1,500 monkeys.
In partnership with the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, the local administration has been making attempts to keep the rampant monkey population in check by introducing sterilization methods. Yet, it seems that the rapid breeding capacities of these macaques far outstrip the effectiveness of these interventions, as per Natthachai’s observations.
Looking to devise more potent methods to control this escalating issue, a special provincial committee focusing on the monkey population problem has decided to propose deregulating the long-tailed macaque from the Wild Animal Conservation and Protection Act of 2019. This initiative, according to the governor, would enable officials to carry out more aggressive measures towards maintaining a healthy balance in the monkey populace.
“The Protective list was essentially created to safeguard endangered species. However, these monkeys are far from that with their significantly robust numbers,” Natthachai stated. Further, with the Cruelty Prevention and Welfare of Animal Act remaining active, he reassured that the move to declassify them from the protection list will not put these creatures at risk of harm or neglect. Their rights to fair treatment and protection from inhumane activities will still be in place, ensuring we live peaceably alongside our furry neighbours.
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