Coconut-Monkeys? Where?

[moonseeker]

Where can I rent a coconut-monkey (with handler.....;-), as often seen on Samui and other islands to get some coconuts down from high palms in my garden?

Don't tell me to get one in a bar.....I am serious.....555555.....THX. MS>

[Basil B]

I think those who would suggest looking in a bar are serious too.

There seem to be plenty of contractors around with "billhooks" on the end of a long pole, look for some where like a condominium or hotel with a lot of coconut trees, ask them who they use.

[LennyW]

Nong Nooch.

[BB1950]

Yeah, I don't think monkey's can be used in Conburi province because it's now against the law. At least I haven't seen any.

What we used were rice sickle blades (available in rural markets) attached to bamboo poles (obtained from a local plot of land with wild bamboo trees) with rubber strips (cut from motorcycle inner tubes). The poles were lengthened by attaching another pole with a the rubber strips.

If the coconut trees are taller than 5 meters, there's risk of the coconuts cracking upon falling. We had a two person team, one cutting the coconuts off, and another throwing a cushion where the coconut would land. We don't have many coconut trees any more because they've gotten too tall and most have been killed by lightning strikes or insects.

There's not much money paid for coconuts (4 baht each) and the trees have gotten too tall. We don't bother anymore. Instead there's an old man who lives near by who cuts the coconuts down and collects the ones that have fallen in exchange from keeping the coconuts. It gives him a little spending money and keeps the coconuts from littering the place.

You didn't mention where the trees are located. If you're in an area where there's lots of coconuts look for a house that has stacks of coconuts piled up outside. Go talk to them, they'll be glad to help you as they are coconut processors and have connections. If you're in Huai Yai send me a PM, I can put you in contact with someone who can help.

Edited March 2, 2014 by BB1950