Concerns are mounting over the fate of monkeys at Cambodia’s iconic Angkor Wat temple, as they may be relocated to breeding farms, where primates are exported for laboratory testing. The move comes after authorities announced a plan to identify and remove aggressive monkeys from public areas.
Relocation Plans Spark Alarm
Cambodia’s Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries recently announced a census of monkeys in the Angkor Wat area, aiming to relocate aggressive individuals to breeding farms, natural habitats, or Phnom Tamao Zoo. However, animal rights groups, such as Action for Primates (AfP), are alarmed by the possibility of monkeys being sent to breeding farms, which often supply animals for testing in laboratories.
“Sending them to breeding farms is exceptionally cruel,” said Sarah Kite, co-founder of AfP.
Monkey Aggression Linked to Tourism
The aggressive behavior displayed by the monkeys is believed to be the result of their unnatural dependence on tourists for food. Years of being treated as tourist attractions have caused the monkeys to lose their natural foraging instincts, leading to increased aggression.
Concerns Over Animal Abuse for Online Content
Adding to the problem, disturbing videos showing mistreatment of monkeys at Angkor Wat have surfaced online. These include instances where baby monkeys are doused with water and others where macaques are manipulated for entertainment. While authorities don’t allow such behavior, it is difficult to control.
“Exploiting these monkeys for online content is a growing issue,” said Long Kosal of the Apsara National Authority, urging videographers to stop this harmful practice.
Calls for Action
Nick Marx from the Wildlife Alliance stressed that the root of the issue lies in the audience: “If people stop watching these videos, it would help reduce the problem of abuse.”
As the situation unfolds, animal protection groups continue to advocate for the welfare of the Angkor Wat monkeys, warning against their possible exploitation for testing purposes.