In recent years, it has been reported several times about monkeys developing horrifically aggressive behavior, to the extent that they brutally attack humans.
What makes our evolutionary cousins become so cruel?
We enlisted the help of Claude to explain.
The reason for the monkey attacks is apparently normal behavior of animals, while their submissive behavior the rest of the time is a disturbance created by human influence.
Investigations of attacks on macaques and langur monkeys in Asia and India point to over-adaptation to the presence of humans as the main driver of attacks resulting from unwanted contact.
Adaptation refers to animals becoming accustomed to a beneficial human presence, while overhabituation is what happens when that comfort goes too far.
Tourists and well-intentioned residents who feed monkeys human foods that are perceived by the animals as treats lead the animals to associate people with easily obtainable food.
Thus they become bold enough to grab bags, enter houses, or even confront visitors.
Monkey bites do not always result from human 'provocation' either.
The intelligent mammals may see humans as nothing more than food sources, and act without fear or discrimination for valuable items to "trade".
According to primatologist Jane Goodall, "Humans created the problem."
While hunger drives most attacks, misreading cues also plays a role.
Monkeys signal aggression through facial expressions, vocalizations and gestures that are easily misinterpreted.
Backing off from jumping, hitting the ground, or baring teeth is the smart thing to do, even if the movements were only made as an empty threat.
Following simple rules can help ensure safe and mutually beneficial ecotourism between man and monkey:
1. Keep a significant distance.
2. Do not block escape routes.
3. Avoid direct eye contact.
4. Pay attention to aggressive signals.
5. Never feed wild monkeys.
Although they are fascinating, monkeys that find themselves faced with food or a threat may prove to be fearless opponents.
Being careful allows us to see them as they should be seen - as a natural wonder that should be left as it is, and not interfered with too much.
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