1. Recognize the signs of an aggressive monkey
Monkeys are social animals that live in groups called troops. In most cases, they will avoid humans, but some species of monkeys are territorial and protective of their young ones. If you see a monkey staring at you with an intense gaze, baring its teeth, and showing aggressive behavior, it is a sign that the monkey is feeling threatened and may attack. You should avoid eye contact with the monkey and slowly back away.
2. Avoid carrying food or drinks when around monkeys
Monkeys are known to be opportunistic animals. They will often approach humans to scavenge food or steal drinks. If you are carrying food or drinks when around monkeys, it could trigger their aggressive behavior, and they may attack you to get the food. It is best to avoid carrying food or drinks when around monkeys, especially in the forest or at the beach.
3. Keep a safe distance when around monkeys
Maintaining a safe distance is one of the best ways to prevent a monkey attack. If you are visiting a monkey habitat or zoo, there will be clear signs of how close you can get to the monkeys. You should make sure you follow the guidelines and not get too close to the monkeys. If you are taking pictures, use zoom lenses to capture the images rather than getting too close to the monkeys.
4. Do not make direct eye contact with the monkeys
In the monkey world, direct eye contact means aggression. Monkeys will view direct eye contact as a challenge to their dominance. If you make direct eye contact with a monkey, it will feel threatened and may attack you. It is best to avoid direct eye contact with monkeys and look away.
5. Stay calm and do not panic
If a monkey attacks you, it is essential to stay calm and not panic. When you panic, you will make erratic movements that could trigger the monkey’s aggressive behavior. You should stand still and avoid making sudden movements. If the monkey is charging towards you, it is best to fall on the ground and stay there until the monkey leaves you alone.
6. Try to avoid provoking the monkey further
If a monkey is already showing aggressive behavior, it is best to avoid provoking it further. You should not shout, throw stones or sticks, or make threatening gestures towards the monkey. These actions will only make the monkey feel more threatened, and it will attack you more aggressively.
In conclusion, monkey attacks are rare, but it is essential to know how to prevent or survive them. Recognizing the signs of an aggressive monkey, avoiding carrying food or drinks when around them, maintaining a safe distance, not making direct eye contact, staying calm in case of an attack, and avoiding provoking them further are some of the ways to prevent or survive a monkey attack. By following these tips, you can enjoy your time with monkeys without risking your safety.