Monkey business: 100 macaques to be neutered in south Bangkok
Bang Khun Thian district chief Passara Natheethong announced that up to 100 macaques in the south Bangkok district will be neutered this month as part of an ongoing initiative to control their population in the district. Last year, 122 macaques underwent the procedure.
Around 330 macaques are estimated to roam freely in three locations: the Khun Kala Monument, the Thian Thalay community, and the Ua Samae Dam Arthorn housing estate. The latter hosts the highest number, with 136 macaques.
Officials from the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP) are conducting the sterilisations after consulting local communities on measures for peaceful cohabitation with the macaques.
The new population control strategy will be implemented in three phases, with population control as the central phase.
In the short term, designated feeding spots have been established to prevent the animals from straying and grabbing food from passers-by and residents. Leftover fruit and vegetables are being supplied by residents and market vendors at these locations.
Passara mentioned that the DNP will offer financial compensation to individuals injured by macaques.
In the medium term, the sterilisation efforts will persist, with the neutered macaques being registered.
For the long term, Passara stated that the district aims to relocate the macaques to a 12-rai vacant plot purchased by City Hall in 2007, which is being developed into a macaque conservation centre. The project, however, necessitates funding and manpower, reported Bangkok Post.
Additionally, a public hearing is planned to gather feedback from residents living near the site.
In related news, a Swedish tourist experienced an unexpected encounter with wildlife when he was bitten on the neck by a macaque during a visit to Phra Prang Sam Yot, a renowned landmark in Lop Buri province. Rescue workers swiftly transported him to Phra Narai Maharat Hospital for necessary treatment and vaccination.