Feeding Monkeys

Monkeys all over the world are well known to be mischievous creatures. They are rambunctious, screechy, but intelligent. In India, monkeys have a status that, in essence, is higher then a large percentage of the human population. The Hindu worship of the monkey god, Hanuman, has developed a high social status for monkeys in India. For this reason, people feel the need, privilege, and right to feed the monkeys, even when the government demands that they not.

Monkeys are not safe to feed. No matter what, if a bite occurs from a monkey, make sure to receive medical attention... AND FAST! Many monkeys carry Rabies. Rabies is a virus that causes inflammation to the brain and if left untreated, is usually fatal. ALWAYS seek medical treatment if you receive a bite or even a scratch from a monkey. Monkeys may look cute and cuddly, but the truth is that they are actually quite aggressive.

Two Types of Monkeys:

Langur - The Langur monkey is known to be more aggressive. The bread is generally larger and more territorial.

Bandar - Bandar monkeys are not as aggressive but still can be dangerous when provoked. Either way, they should NOT be fed.

Not only are monkeys dangerous and carry diseases, they are ANNOYING! When I was going to school in North India, I lived in a small home that had a metal roof. Constantly I would wake up to the sound of roaring monkeys storming across the roof of my house, making loud, screeching noises.

Though the negatives seem to overpower the positives when it comes to Indian monkeys, please make sure that when you travel in India to respect the creatures. Remember that you are travelling on their land and that the people see monkeys as holy - So be sure to keep that in mind.