Police warn Florida residents not to feed wild monkeys

You may have heard of Florida's python problem or seen strolling alligators, alligators carrying pythons and even falling iguanas. Now, authorities in Florida are urging residents to steer clear of wild monkeys roaming the state.

In a Facebook post on Dec 16, the Orange City Police Department warned people not to feed monkeys after numerous sightings have been reported. Authorities say they've received multiple recent reports of monkey sightings in Orange City, approximately 30 miles north of Orlando. Similar sightings have been noted in nearby Deltona and DeBary.

Officials are advising locals not to feed the monkeys and are requesting that any sightings be reported to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).

The FWC has identified several species of wild monkeys in the state, including rhesus macaques, vervet monkeys and squirrel monkeys, none of which are native. These monkeys can carry serious diseases, such as herpes B, which can be transmitted to humans.

In 2018, the FWC enacted a rule that prohibits feeding wild monkeys, making it a second-degree misdemeanor punishable by up to 60 days in jail and a fine of up to $500. The rule defines "feeding" as placing food or garbage, or allowing the placement of food or garbage, in a manner that attracts wild monkeys.

The agency warns that feeding these animals can encourage them to approach people and pets, heightening the risk of aggressive behavior, including biting and scratching, and increasing the likelihood of disease transmission.

Contact Information: Wildlife Alert Hotline: 888-404-FWCC (888-404-3922)

Submit a Tip: MyFWC.com/WildlifeAlert

TMX contributed to this report.

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