What To Do If A Monkey Attacks You

Monkey attacks may seem unlikely, but they do occasionally happen, especially in areas where human and monkey habitats overlap. If you ever find yourself face-to-face with an aggressive monkey, it’s important to know how to safely respond.

If you’re short on time, here’s the key things you need to do if a monkey attacks: back away slowly without making eye contact, avoid sudden movements, don’t bare your teeth, protect your head and face, and seek shelter in an enclosure or vehicle.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know before, during, and after a monkey attack.

How to Avoid Monkey Attacks

Be Cautious Around Wildlife

When traveling to areas inhabited by monkeys, it is crucial to exercise caution. Monkeys are wild animals and can be unpredictable. Keep the following tips in mind:

• Be aware of your surroundings at all times. Pay attention to any monkeys in the area and do not approach them.
• Do not attempt to feed or interact with monkeys. This encourages them to associate humans with food and removes their natural fear, making aggressive behavior more likely.
• Travel in groups when possible and avoid isolated areas. There is safety in numbers.
• Carry a stick or protective item when hiking. This can be used to fend off unwanted monkey advances if necessary.
• Watch for signs of aggression like bared teeth, lunging movements, or loud vocalizations. Slowly back away if you observe these behaviors.

Remember, monkeys are wild creatures that can inflict serious harm. Caution and common sense go a long way in avoiding unpleasant monkey encounters.

Keep Your Distance

Maintaining ample distance is the most fundamental rule for preventing monkey aggression. Monkeys have complex social structures and can view close human proximity as a threat. To avoid triggering a defensive response:

• Stay at least 30-50 feet from any monkeys you observe.
• Do not corner or crowd monkeys. Always leave them an escape route.
• If a monkey approaches you, back away slowly to keep distance between you.
• Do not run or make sudden movements, as this can elicit chase instinct.

Keeping space between yourself and monkeys reduces the risks. Remember, they are not pets looking to play or be fed. Let them be wild.

Don’t Have Food Visible

The presence of food is one of the most common catalysts for aggressive monkey behavior targeting humans. To avoid food-related incidents:

• Keep all food items concealed and securely stored while in monkey habitats.
• Do not openly eat or handle food around monkeys.
• Properly dispose of food waste in designated receptacles.
• If a monkey attempts to take your food, do not struggle or fight. Drop the item and move away.

According to wildlife experts, over 50% of monkey attacks on tourists involve stealing food. So remaining vigilant is key. As the saying goes, “a fed monkey is a dead monkey.” Don’t encourage their dependence on humans as a food source.

What To Do If a Monkey Attacks

Remain Calm

If a monkey suddenly attacks, it’s understandable to feel afraid or panicked. However, it’s important to try to remain calm. Monkeys can sense fear and aggression, which may provoke them further. Take some deep breaths and try to compose yourself.

Back Away Slowly

If you spot an aggressive monkey, back away slowly while avoiding direct eye contact. Don’t make any sudden movements that could be interpreted as aggressive by the monkey. Move calmly and deliberately until you’re out of the monkey’s territory.

Protect Your Head

If a monkey does launch an attack, protect your head and neck area. These are the most vulnerable areas that a monkey will likely target. Use your arms and hands to shield your head and neck while continuing to back away from the aggressive primate.

Don’t Make Eye Contact

Prolonged direct eye contact can be interpreted as aggression by monkeys. Avoid staring directly at their eyes, even if they are staring directly at you. Look down or sideways, wear sunglasses, or seek shelter to avoid eye contact that may provoke an attack.

Seek Shelter

If possible, quickly get inside a building, vehicle, or other enclosed shelter to separate yourself from an attacking monkey. Primates like monkeys rarely pursue people into shelters or enclosed spaces.

You can also climb a tree to get away from aggressive monkeys on the ground, but be cautious of tree-dwelling species.

What To Do After a Monkey Attack

Clean and Treat Any Wounds

If a monkey has bitten or scratched you, it’s important to clean the wound immediately to prevent infection. Use warm soapy water and gently wash the area. You may need to apply a topical antibiotic ointment as well. Cover the wound with a clean bandage.

If the bite or scratch is deep, you should see your doctor. They may prescribe antibiotics or a tetanus shot.

Contact Local Animal Control

After treating any injuries, contact your local animal control department to report the monkey attack. Provide details on where and when it occurred. Animal control can then monitor monkey activity in the area and warn people of any aggressive animals. This helps prevent future attacks.

File a Report

You should also file an incident report with the police department. This creates an official record of the monkey attack which may be useful if you need to seek compensation for medical bills or lost wages. The report should include specifics like:

• The date, time, and location of the attack
• A description of the monkey’s appearance and behaviors
• Your name and contact details
• Any injuries sustained
• Names of witnesses, if available

Filing the report starts a paper trail in case further legal action becomes necessary. For example, if animal control determines the monkey poses an ongoing threat, they may be able to take stronger containment measures.

Or if your injuries and financial losses are significant, you may need to consult a personal injury attorney. Having an official report strengthens your case.

Dealing with a monkey attack can be scary and stressful. But taking sensible steps afterwards like treating wounds, informing authorities, and documenting the incident helps ensure your safety and appropriate follow-up actions.

Conclusion

While monkey attacks are uncommon, understanding proper safety precautions can help you respond appropriately in the event of an aggressive primate encounter. Most importantly, avoid sudden movements, protect your head and face, and seek shelter either in an enclosure or vehicle until the monkey loses interest.