Lack of understanding on residents' monkey problem

Straits Times Forum 8 May 13;

MANY people do not understand the real problems posed by monkeys that roam around residential estates ("Learn to co-exist with wildlife" by Mr Daniel Koh Kah Soon; Forum Online, last Saturday). Calling for humans to co-exist peacefully with monkeys is unrealistic.

Monkeys usually move around in packs when searching for food.

A pack of monkeys recently damaged my neighbours' television antenna, which was mounted on the rooftop. They seemed uncontrollable.

Even among their own kind, monkeys tend to exhibit aggressive behaviour, fighting among themselves.

Experts warn that once young monkeys reach sexual maturity, they can become aggressive.

What if monkeys turn aggressive and attack and bite humans?

Studies show that some primates harbour deadly diseases that they can transmit to humans through bites and scratches.

But instead of culling wild monkeys, I appeal for a more humane approach.

The Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority could put up requests for wildlife agencies from our neighbouring countries to help with rehoming the monkeys.

Wild creatures like boars and monkeys were always meant to be free.

Ada Chan Siew Foen (Ms)