On International Primate Day, Wildlife SOS draws urgent attention to the escalating human-primate conflict issues intensified by urbanisation, habitat encroachment, and infrastructure development. As natural habitats shrink and are replaced by concrete structures, the lives of these adaptable yet vulnerable creatures are increasingly at risk.

 India, home to 22 primate species, has witnessed a worrying trend in which some species, such as the rhesus macaque i.e. Macaca mulatta, and Indian grey langur i.e. Semnopithecus entellus, have learned to survive in urban environments. These ‘commensal’ primates have become a common sight in cities, navigating roads, power lines, and buildings as part of their daily existence.

However, the transition from jungles to cities has proven fatal for many of these primates. Wildlife SOS has rescued numerous monkeys suffering from severe injuries due to electrocution and road accidents. Moreover, urban residents often view these primates as a nuisance, leading to persecution. The organisation has also treated and rehabilitated several monkeys with various wounds and injuries inflicted by those who see them as a threat.

Wildlife SOS is at the forefront of efforts to rescue and rehabilitate these urban-dwelling primates. The organisation not only rescues and treats injured monkeys but also works to reunite baby monkeys with their mothers whenever possible. In cases where reunion is not feasible, Wildlife SOS has successfully hand-reared several baby monkeys, providing them with the care and nurturing they need to survive.

Baiju Raj MV, Director of Conservation Projects, Wildlife SOS, says, “Electrocution remains a leading cause of injury among rhesus macaques dwelling in urban settlements. In one such incident, the mothers of two baby macaques, Abu and Zoey, died from electrocution injuries. Wildlife SOS rescued the infants and provided ongoing care to meet their psychological and physical needs.”