Biology Reference
In-Depth Information
around the periphery of the gardens so that monkeys might learn to avoid eat-
ing taro. The farmers of Bali used this approach, although the monkeys learned
to use their teeth to peel away the most toxic part of the cassava before they
ate it (Wheatley,
1999a
). Monkeys north of the village, near the lighthouse
area would be much more difficult to eradicate because of the extensive coral
outcroppings and this is the area where tourists can view them. Tourists should
not be allowed to feed or interact with monkeys because this will increase the
potential for human and macaque conflict. Keeping these macaques as pets
should also be discouraged because of the potential for disease transmission as
well as other concerns.
Conclusion
The macaques of Ngeaur in the Republic of Palau are a good example of eth-
nophoresy. They were brought to Ngeaur Island during the German occupa-
tion sometime around 1909. The macaques are viewed as a serious pest in
Ngeaur despite some claims to the contrary. The macaque population exceeds
the human population on Ngeaur. The damage that macaques do can be exag-
gerated while the damage that other animals do can be ignored or minimized.
The allegations, unsupported assertions, and anonymous reports are repeated
as if they were facts. One needs to ask, why assertions such as these are regu-
larly made and who might profit from them.
Ethnoprimatology has a conservation application because it examines
the interactions between humans and other primates. This growing field is
at the forefront of many conservation efforts and we may need to study
other species to better understand human-animal problems and to offer
more rational management decisions. Through dialogue we should be able
to find common ground among the conservationists of Palau in protecting
its endangered species and in promoting environmental concerns to preserve
the beauty of Palau. The success of any conservation project and the future
of the macaques of Ngeaur will ultimately be up to the people of Ngeaur
themselves.
Acknowledgements
I am grateful to the community of Ngeaur for their generous hospitality. Their
receptiveness to our studies on their Island and their sharing of information
with us were of immense help. I also thank Kelly G. Marsh for helping me
access updated information about the macaques in Palau and for her review
