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Nepal is counting its monkeys to tame rising trouble in villages

First nationwide monkey census aims to find ways to reduce conflict and help develop conservation and adaptation plans.

The Kathmandu Post

The Kathmandu Post

 

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A rhesus macaque. PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED/THE KATHMANDU POST

May 22, 2025

LUMBINI – A nationwide monkey census is underway to understand and manage the growing problems caused by monkeys. The census aims to collect accurate data from areas with high monkey populations to help authorities develop effective policies and conservation strategies.The initiative is being led by the Central Department of Zoology at Tribhuvan University (TU), with support from the National Trust for Nature Conservation (NTNC). According to experts, monkey-related issues—especially crop destruction and human-animal conflicts—have become matters of national concern. Data from the count will assist in developing monkey-friendly solutions and support affected farmers.So far, the census has been completed in Gaurishankar, Baiteshwar and Bigu rural municipalities in Dolakha, and two local units in Dhading. According to Hari Prasad Sharma, associate professor at the Central Department of Zoology (TU), monkey counts have been completed in four municipalities and 15 rural municipalities of 13 districts so far.Counts are ongoing in Manthali of Ramechhap, Dullu of Dailekh, Patan of Baitadi, and Dhunibesi of Dhading, with plans to expand to Ilam, Panchthar, Dhankuta and Makawanpur district shortly.

Launched on March 28, the monkey count is expected to conclude by mid-June. It is being conducted in six provinces, excluding Madhesh, where a similar count was completed earlier. In Lumbini province, the survey is yet to begin, but will soon cover Palpa, Arghakhanchi, Gulmi and Pyuthan districts.

To identify problem areas, the organisers initially sent letters to all 753 local units across the nation requesting reports on monkey-related issues. About 230 responded, and 40 to 45 municipalities identified specific wards where monkeys were causing severe problems. Associate professor Bishnu Prasad Bhattarai at the department said the team verified these reports through follow-up calls, media monitoring, and parliamentary complaints to select sites for the census.

An 18-member team—comprising professors, wildlife researchers and zoology students—is conducting the census. Each team coordinates with ward chiefs, other elected representatives and the locals to collect accurate data. Local volunteers are also involved to ensure the findings are as comprehensive as possible.According to Sharma, Nepal is home to four monkey species: the Rhesus macaque (red monkey), Assamese macaque (pahare monkey), and two types of langurs—Nepal langur and Tarai langur. Some experts argue there may be three langur species in Nepal, but further research is needed. Globally, there are about 300 monkey species.Of these, the Assamese macaque is listed as a protected species under Nepal’s National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act. The langurs are listed in Appendix I of CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species), while the Rhesus and Assamese macaques are in Appendix II. According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List, the Assamese macaque and Tarai langur are endangered, while the Rhesus macaque and Nepal langur are classified as species of least concern.Sharma, who is also the census coordinator, said enumerators and participants have undergone scientific training to ensure accuracy. Each location is surveyed five times to establish an average count and produce reliable data.

In the past, if monkeys or wild boars were killed while raiding cropfields, farmers could face legal action. However, recent regulatory changes allow documented handling instead of punishment. Since December, a one-year pilot programme has also been in place to provide compensation to farmers whose crops are damaged.

Given the religious and cultural reverence for monkeys in Nepal, the census team is also collecting local suggestions on how to manage the arboreal animals. “Some people suggest sterilisation while others suggest culling. Understanding local sentiments is essential,” said Sharma.

The findings from this count will allow researchers to estimate the nationwide monkey population and monitor changes over time. A follow-up census in five-six years could determine whether numbers are rising and guide the government in developing short-, medium-, and long-term strategies.

Monkeys often stray from forests into villages and farmland in search of food, damaging crops and sometimes attacking people when confronted. In some cases, angry farmers retaliate by chasing, injuring, or even killing the animals. There have also been human casualties resulting from attempts to drive monkeys away.

Wildlife expert Hem Sagar Baral noted the ecological importance of monkeys. “They help in seed dispersal by eating fruit and excreting seeds in new locations, and contribute to forest regeneration,” he said.

This is Nepal’s first nationwide monkey census. Monkeys are known to inhabit areas ranging from 63 meters to 4,000 meters above sea level, reflecting their broad ecological adaptability. The data collected is expected to shape future conservation efforts and balance the needs of both people and wildlife.

In recent years, almost all districts are increasingly coming under siege from a growing population of monkeys. The primates invade fields and even homes, looking for food and often become aggressive when confronted, forcing locals to resort to drastic measures, like setting traps and hiring trappers.

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