Synopsis
The APSARA National Authority (ANA) has reported rising issues with monkeys at the UNESCO-listed Angkor Archaeological Park in Cambodia. These monkeys, drawn by human food, are causing disturbances for tourists and pose risks of injury. The ANA urges visitors to refrain from feeding or interacting with them.Key Takeaways
- Monkeys are causing issues for tourists at Angkor Park.
- Feeding by humans has altered monkey behavior.
- Injuries have been reported due to monkey interactions.
- The ANA is working on solutions to address the problem.
- Angkor Park is a major tourist destination, generating significant revenue.
Phnom Penh, Feb 4 (NationPress) The APSARA National Authority (ANA) of Cambodia announced on Tuesday that groups of monkeys are causing disturbances for visitors and temples at the UNESCO-listed Angkor Archaeological Park located in northwest Siem Reap province.
The ANA, the governmental body tasked with the management, protection, and conservation of the Angkor Archaeological Park, reported a notable increase in the monkey population within the park. Some of these primates have been known to steal food and have even injured individuals.
According to the ANA, "Due to a small number of individuals who produce video content for personal benefit, these monkeys have been regularly fed. This practice has altered their behavior, turning them from wild creatures into aggressive, food-stealing animals that cause harm to humans."
The ANA has reiterated its appeal for both tourists and locals to avoid interactions with monkeys, cease feeding them, and refrain from touching or playing with them, as reported by the Xinhua news agency.
"The APSARA National Authority will maintain collaboration with the relevant departments of the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries to identify suitable solutions to mitigate the issues caused by monkeys in Angkor Park," the statement added.
It is estimated that there are potentially hundreds of monkeys at Angkor Thom, one of the temples situated in the Angkor Park.
These well-fed monkeys have grown accustomed to humans, choosing not to venture into the forests for food but instead waiting for handouts from visitors, and sometimes snatching food from unsuspecting tourists.
Spanning 401 square kilometers, the Angkor Archaeological Park is home to 91 ancient temples, constructed between the ninth and thirteenth centuries.
This historic site is the most visited tourist destination in Cambodia, having attracted 1.02 million foreign tourists in 2024, resulting in a remarkable revenue of $47.8 million from ticket sales, as reported by the state-owned Angkor Enterprise.
