Monkeys at the Angkor UNESCO World Heritage Site in Cambodia are known for their playful and mischievous nature, attracting tourists from all over the world. However, these beloved creatures are facing a new threat – abuse at the hands of YouTubers chasing viral fame.
The Angkor Archaeological Park, a sprawling complex of ancient temples and ruins, is home to a large population of macaques. These monkeys have been a part of the site for centuries and are considered sacred by the locals. However, in recent years, their peaceful existence has been disrupted by the influx of tourists and the rise of social media.
Videos of tourists feeding, petting, and even harassing the monkeys have been circulating on social media platforms like YouTube, garnering millions of views. These videos often portray the monkeys as cute and friendly creatures, encouraging more tourists to interact with them. However, the reality is far from it.
Local authorities have reported an increase in incidents of tourists provoking and even physically harming the monkeys for the sake of getting a viral video. Some tourists have been seen chasing the monkeys, pulling their tails, and even trying to ride them. These actions not only cause distress to the monkeys but also put them at risk of injury.
Moreover, the feeding of monkeys by tourists has also become a major concern. While it may seem harmless, the food given by tourists is often unhealthy for the monkeys and can lead to health issues. It also disrupts their natural foraging behavior, making them dependent on handouts from tourists.
The rise of social media has also led to a rise in the number of people trying to capture the perfect selfie with the monkeys. This has resulted in several incidents of monkeys snatching phones and cameras from tourists, causing damage to the devices and putting the monkeys in danger as they may ingest harmful materials.
The situation has become so concerning that the local authorities have had to step in and take action. In 2019, a ban was imposed on feeding and touching the monkeys, with fines of up to $50 for those caught breaking the rules. However, the ban has not been strictly enforced, and tourists continue to engage in these activities.
The abuse faced by the monkeys at Angkor has also caught the attention of animal welfare organizations. The Wildlife Alliance, a non-profit organization working towards the protection of wildlife in Cambodia, has been actively trying to raise awareness about the issue and educate tourists about responsible tourism.
The organization has also been working with the local authorities to implement stricter regulations and penalties for those found guilty of mistreating the monkeys. They have also set up feeding stations in the park to provide the monkeys with a healthy and balanced diet, reducing their dependence on tourists.
The rise of social media has undoubtedly played a significant role in the mistreatment of the monkeys at Angkor. The desire for likes, views, and shares has led some tourists to prioritize their own entertainment over the well-being of these animals. However, it is essential to remember that these monkeys are wild animals and should be treated with respect and caution.
As tourists, it is our responsibility to be mindful of our actions and the impact they have on the environment and the animals we encounter. Instead of seeking out interactions with the monkeys for the sake of a viral video, we should appreciate them from a distance and let them live their lives in peace.
The Angkor Archaeological Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it is our duty to protect and preserve its natural inhabitants. Let us not contribute to the abuse and exploitation of these monkeys and instead promote responsible and ethical tourism.
In conclusion, the abuse faced by the monkeys at Angkor is a concerning issue that needs to be addressed urgently. It is time for us to prioritize the well-being of these animals over our desire for viral fame. Let us work together to ensure that the monkeys at Angkor can continue to live in their natural habitat without fear of mistreatment.
