Monkeys go on looting spree

JAKARTA (JP): A food crisis stemming from dwindling numbers of tourists has forced monkeys in a West Java resort to go on a looting spree, a press report said Wednesday.

Dozens of monkeys in the Penanjung forest reserve who normally depend upon holidaymakers for food have begun to spring raids on houses, motels and food stalls in the area, grabbing anything they can get their paws on such as rice, peanuts, biscuits and cold drinks.

Some were caught red handed stealing rice from a pot in a kitchen and others have even run away with food laid out on the dinner table.

Kompas reported that because of their long dependence on human generosity, most of the monkeys no longer like their natural food, which includes young leaves and fruit.

"When the number of tourists declines, the animals go hungry," a resident said.

Around 300 monkeys live in Penanjung reserve forest, but locals estimate that only a hard core of about 80 of the guys have been involved in the looting spree.

Before the crisis broke last year, up to 10,000 holidaymakers visited the resort every day. That number has now plummeted to around 700, according to the local tourist office. (pan)