Monkeys are omnivorous, eating nuts, fruits, leaves, flowers, vegetables, bark, roots, rodents and insects. They typically live in troops that include one or more adult males, females and their offspring. Unattached adult males sometimes form harems with other monkeys in the troop. They bond with family members through daily mutual grooming.
Some of the world’s most fascinating monkey species are in rapid decline. Threats range from habitat loss and fragmentation, to hunting for bushmeat or traditional medicines and live capture for the global pet trade.
In the wild, monkeys are generally afraid of humans and scamper away when they spot a person approaching. But as these creatures lose their habitats around the globe, they become more familiar with people. That, combined with a natural desire to eat, can sometimes lead to aggression.
Monkeys who think you might be carrying food tend to be the most aggressive. Holding out your open hands can help show you’re not carrying anything they might want to eat. Also, a simple gesture of backing up and making yourself large by waving your arms or standing up tall can discourage aggressive behavior.
Avoid pointing, gesturing or shouting at macaques as they can interpret these movements as aggression or threat. Do not smile at them either as this may be interpreted as a sign of aggression or a threat. Also, keep jewellery and shiny objects (like sunglasses or cameras) at a safe distance. Also, long hair should be tied up and piercings removed to prevent monkeys from accessing them. If you are attacked, wash your wounds immediately and seek medical attention.