Biology Reference
In-Depth Information
with two other places with human-macaque interface, Singapore experi-
ences the lowest human-macaque interface with 28.2 individuals per km
2
in
the nature reserves and its vicinity, compared with Hong Kong (326 indiv
per km
2
) (Wong and Ni,
2000
) and Bali (1111 indiv per km
2
) (Wheatley,
1999). These numbers should put things into perspective for the public and
suggest that population density of macaques may not be the main driver of
perceived human-macaque conflicts (Sha
et al
.,
2009a
).
Conclusion
Human-macaque conflict does exist in Singapore but it is much more benign
compared to human-macaque interfaces in other parts of the world (Fuentes
et al
.,
2008
, Jones-Engel
et al
.,
2006
, Sha
et al
.,
2009b
). Research has show
that human behavior is the main cause of macaque-to-human interaction,
and the challenge would be to change human behavior and habits to ameli-
orate conflicts in interface zones (Sha
et al
.,
2009b
). In this same study, the
authors have shown that majority (90 percent) of the interviewees argued for
the conservation of macaques rather than their entire eradication. Coupled
with the research conducted on Singapore macaques to date, this attests to
the conservation, scientific and intrinsic values of Singapore's long-tailed
macaques, and that the preservation of the species has an important place in
safeguarding Singapore's natural heritage.
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