Macaques have been causing quite a commotion in Phra Nakhon Khiri, also known as Khao Wang, a historic park in Muang district of Prachuap Khiri Khan. These clever creatures are notorious for their cunning raids on local shops and homes, leaving behind a trail of chaos and damage. The havoc wreaked by the growing population of these rascally monkeys has led to authorities devising an extensive relocation plan. With 3,000 macaques in Muang district alone, and around 1,000 to 1,500 in other districts, their numbers are only increasing.
As the monkey population expands, these crafty creatures are further encroaching into residential areas in search of sustenance. This conflict has had a negative impact on residents, businesses, and tourists alike. The National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation Department’s Protected Area Regional Office 3 has implemented sterilization programs, but these efforts have not been effective in curbing the ever-growing macaque population. As a result, authorities have initiated a relocation plan to move these mischievous monkeys to a more suitable location where they can thrive without causing disturbances.
While provincial governor Natthachai Nampoonsuksan has not specified a destination for the relocation, locals have suggested that an island in the middle of Kaeng Krachan Dam reservoir could serve as a potential new home. This wildlife sanctuary would provide the simian scoundrels with ample space to live more organically and unobtrusively in their natural habitat.
Uraiwan Phopuang, a resident of a community near Khao Wang, has experienced the macaques’ antics firsthand. She claims the primates have repeatedly invaded their homes and shops, searching for food and causing extensive damage in their wake. In addition to property damage, the macaques have also been known to carry diseases, notably scabies, which can lead to respiratory issues. Furthermore, their persistent presence has become an annoyance to tourists visiting the area.
The situation is similarly distressing for Preeda Boonprasert, a sweets shop owner near Khao Wang. The macaques seemingly have little regard for cleanliness; they can often be found urinating indiscriminately and creating an overpowering odor. Plus, their risky antics have led to accidents as they dart across roads, oblivious to oncoming traffic.
It is clear that the relocation of the mischievous macaque population is a sigh of relief to shop owners, residents, and tourists alike who have been affected by their shenanigans. The proposed movement to an island sanctuary will provide a more natural habitat for these cunning creatures, while bringing peace and tranquility back to the Phra Nakhon Khiri region.
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