Human-Monkey Interactions in Urban Bengaluru: Community Perceptions, Conflict Patterns and Management Implications

Abstract

Aims: To assess community perceptions, conflict patterns, and management preferences regarding human-monkey interactions in urban Bengaluru, to develop evidence-based wildlife management strategies that balance conservation objectives with community well-being. Study Design: Cross-sectional survey study. Place and Duration of Study: Urban Bengaluru (12°58′N--13°00′N, 77°30′E--77°40′E), Karnataka state, India, between January 2024 and July 2025. Methodology: A structured questionnaire was distributed via Google Forms to 702 residents aged 18 years and above across all wards within the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) limits, using random sampling. The questionnaire assessed feeding practices, food type preferences, tolerance levels, psychological impacts, disease transmission perceptions, conflict types, property damage scales, and management preferences. Data were analysed using chi-square tests, Cramer's V correlation, odds ratios, and Cochran-Armitage trend tests. Results: Of 701 respondents, 324 (46.2%) reported feeding monkeys, with fruits strongly preferred (83.2%). Tolerance levels were predominantly neutral, with moderate psychological disturbance reported by respondents. A critical knowledge gap emerged, with the majority uncertain about disease transmission. Food snatching was the most common conflict type, while property damage was predominantly low-scale. Statistical analysis revealed a moderate positive association between feeding and tolerance and a strong association between tolerance and psychological disturbance. Disease transmission beliefs significantly influenced feeding behavior. Non-feeding and physical barriers emerged as preferred management approaches, with culling almost universally rejected. Conclusion: Human-monkey coexistence in urban Bengaluru is characterized by widespread provisioning, predominantly neutral tolerance, and moderate conflict. Management strategies must address the critical disease transmission knowledge gap through targeted education, develop evidence-based feeding guidelines that respect cultural values, and implement non-lethal conflict mitigation approaches. The strong foundation of cultural tolerance provides an opportunity for sustainable coexistence through proactive, culturally sensitive urban wildlife management.