Thirteen macaques have been captured from a beachside community in Hua Hin following reports of the animals causing disturbances.
The group, originally numbering between 10 and 20, descended from Hin Lek Fai Hill in search of food, leading to complaints from residents.
The macaques had been seen hiding around buildings and displaying aggressive behaviour, including chasing and biting residents, damaging rooftops, and destroying property in the communities close to Hua Hin Fishing Pier.
In response, Hua Hin Municipality, led by Mayor Nopporn Wutthikul, along with Deputy Mayors Pailin Kongphan and Busaba Choksuchart, Vice President of the Council Sunthee Tiamtat, and other members of the Municipal Council, visited the affected area. They were joined by the coastal community committee and a wildlife assistance team from the Phetchaburi Branch of the Protected Areas Administration Division 3.
The authorities began monitoring the situation on July 25 and set up traps to capture the aggressive leader of the group. Some macaques had to be tranquilized to ensure safe capture. As of now, 13 aggressive macaques have been caught, while an estimated 3 to 5 remain in the area.
The captured macaques have been relocated to the Huai Sai Wildlife Breeding Station in Phetchaburi where they will be cared for. The remaining non-aggressive monkeys are expected to be encouraged to return to their natural habitat on Hin Lek Fai Hill.
The situation remains under close observation by local authorities to ensure the safety of both the residents and the remaining macaques.