The Kerala Forest Department has formally submitted a comprehensive proposal to the state government under its ‘Mission Bonnet Macaque’ initiative, aiming to mitigate escalating conflicts between humans and the native bonnet macaque population in residential and urban areas across the state. The move comes as part of ongoing efforts to manage wildlife issues humanely and scientifically amid rising complaints from farmers and local communities.
According to the proposal, which now awaits approval from relevant authorities including the central government, forest officials have recommended a population census of bonnet macaques believed to number around 14,000 individuals in Kerala’s human-dominated landscapes. The initiative also outlines scientific methods of population control and the development of necessary infrastructure such as veterinary systems and specialised cages to facilitate humane handling.
The bonnet macaque, a species listed in the first schedule of the Wildlife (Protection) Act that provides the highest protection status, requires central government consent for changes in management strategies that affect its conservation status. As a result, the submitted proposal will be reviewed for compliance with national conservation laws and guidelines.
To shape the recommendations, a multidisciplinary workshop was held involving international experts, researchers, environmental activists and representatives of the farming community. Participants emphasised a combination of long-term measures and immediate mitigation strategies designed to reduce incidents of crop damage, property loss and daily nuisance caused by macaques foraging in towns and villages.
Officials said the approach balances public welfare with wildlife protection, recognising the ecological importance of the native species while acknowledging the economic and social pressures on farmers and residents facing frequent encounters with monkeys. If approved, the plan could pave the way for targeted interventions that prioritise scientific and humane management, drawing on expert input and community engagement to foster coexistence.
News as reported
