Monkeys go on looting spree<\/p>\n
JAKARTA (JP): A food crisis stemming from dwindling numbers of
\ntourists has forced monkeys in a West Java resort to go on a
\nlooting spree, a press report said Wednesday.<\/p>\n
Dozens of monkeys in the Penanjung forest reserve who normally
\ndepend upon holidaymakers for food have begun to spring raids on
\nhouses, motels and food stalls in the area, grabbing anything
\nthey can get their paws on such as rice, peanuts, biscuits and
\ncold drinks.<\/p>\n
Some were caught red handed stealing rice from a pot in a
\nkitchen and others have even run away with food laid out on the
\ndinner table.<\/p>\n
Kompas reported that because of their long dependence on human
\ngenerosity, most of the monkeys no longer like their natural
\nfood, which includes young leaves and fruit.<\/p>\n
\"When the number of tourists declines, the animals go hungry,\"
\na resident said.<\/p>\n
Around 300 monkeys live in Penanjung reserve forest, but
\nlocals estimate that only a hard core of about 80 of the guys
\nhave been involved in the looting spree.<\/p>\n
Before the crisis broke last year, up to 10,000 holidaymakers
\nvisited the resort every day. That number has now plummeted to
\naround 700, according to the local tourist office. (pan)<\/p>",
"url": "https:\/\/jawawa.id\/newsitem\/monkeys-go-on-looting-spree-1447893297",
"image": ""
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