Monkey raids cost farmers millions annually: Study
Summary
Rhesus macaques are causing an estimated Rs. 50 million in annual crop losses across Nepal’s mid-hills, with maize, rice, wheat and potatoes among the hardest hit. A study by the National Trust for Nature Conservation says farmers are increasingly turning to unsafe and illegal methods to deter monkeys as relief and management measures remain inadequate.
Key Points
- Rhesus macaques, wild boars and porcupines are inflicting serious crop damage in Nepal’s mid-hills, with monkeys alone causing about Rs. 50 million in annual losses.
- The study covered 44 local units across Gandaki, Bagmati, Karnali, Koshi and Sudurpaschim and found maize to be the most affected crop.
- About 70 per cent of surveyed farmers support controlled culling, while many have adopted dangerous and illegal deterrence methods.
- The report recommends a national rhesus macaque management task force and broader strategies including fertility control, buffer zones and compensation mechanisms.
