Lopburi's Monkey Control Efforts: Sterilisation and New Shelter Development

Photo courtesy of KhaoSod English

Efforts to manage the bustling monkey population in Lopburi city centre are actively underway, with a focus on trapping, sterilising, and relocating macaques to mitigate disruptions caused in the area. This initiative, led by the Ministry of Natural Resources and the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP), commenced in May and has been making significant strides in addressing the issues posed by the city's mischievous residents.

Captured macaques are being sterilised and temporarily housed in a large enclosure located in the Po Kao Ton subdistrict of the Mueang district. The primary goal is to curb the aggressive behaviours of these monkeys, who often pose threats to pedestrians, invade homes, and interfere with local businesses, particularly in and around the historic Phra Prang Sam Yot—a site heavily frequented by tourists.

Funded by the 2025 fiscal budget, the latest trapping operation began on June 8 and is set to continue until June 17, with a target of capturing 450 monkeys. According to Adisak Phusitwongsanuyut, director of the protected area regional office 1, a new shelter is currently under construction. This facility is expected to house over 3,000 monkeys and is anticipated to be completed by the end of the month.

The operation in Mueang district is being hailed as a model approach for handling similar monkey-related challenges in other areas, drawing the attention of both national and international media outlets.

Despite the disruptions from the monkey population, the annual Monkey Buffet Festival was successfully held last year at Phra Prang Sam Yot on the last Sunday of November, attracting numerous foreign tourists. The event provided a feast for monkeys, including those temporarily residing in the holding facility, ensuring their participation in the festivities.

The festival's main organiser, Sia Yi, affirmed his commitment to this tradition, expressing that the Monkey Buffet Festival, which boasts a rich history, will continue at its historical site or within the confines of the holding cages if necessary. This continued dedication highlights the cultural importance of the festival amid ongoing efforts to responsibly manage the monkey population.

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-06-12