An injured wild long-tailed macaque has been rescued in Badian, Cebu, after suffering multiple wounds believed to have been caused by a fight with other monkeys.
The macaque was found in Barangay Dubdub on September 14 and was brought under the care of the Badian Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office after a resident alerted authorities.
Macaque found with multiple injuries
The resident reported the injured animal to authorities at around 9:30 a.m.
Personnel from the Badian MENRO were immediately dispatched to safely retrieve the macaque, which was found along the Badian-Mantalongon road in an upland area locally known as “Badian Tops.”
According to MENRO head Manolito Recopelacion, the macaque had multiple bite wounds and scratches affecting its leg, ear and head.
Based on the appearance of the injuries, authorities believe the animal was attacked by other macaques rather than injured by humans.
Territorial fight suspected
Recopelacion said macaques are territorial animals and authorities suspect the injured monkey may have been attacked by members of its own group.
The injuries were considered consistent with a confrontation between primates.
The macaque was given medical treatment, including an antibiotic injection and an antibiotic spray to help prevent infection.
While under the care of MENRO personnel, the animal also began eating, an encouraging sign following the rescue.
Monkey may have become accustomed to people
Authorities also noticed that the macaque appeared to have become accustomed to human presence.
The Badian-Mantalongon road is frequently used by farmers travelling between Badian and Mantalongon in Dalaguete, one of Cebu’s major vegetable-producing areas.
Farmers travelling through the upland route, including those transporting or harvesting crops at night, regularly encounter wildlife in the area.
The frequent human activity may have caused the macaque to become less wary of people.
The scenic route has also attracted visitors because of its elevated views of the surrounding upland areas.
Authorities continue caring for the animal
For now, the rescued macaque remains under the care of Badian MENRO while authorities monitor its recovery.
The incident also highlights the wildlife that continues to inhabit Cebu’s upland areas despite increasing human activity.
Authorities believe the animal’s injuries were the result of a natural territorial confrontation rather than human cruelty, but its encounter with people has also raised questions about how frequent human presence along the route may be affecting the behaviour of wild animals.
The rescued macaque will remain under observation as it recovers from its wounds.
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