Yes, wild monkeys do inhabit Florida, a surprising fact for many given these primates are not native to the Sunshine State. Their presence stems from various introductions over decades, leading to established populations that now thrive in specific regions. While their existence adds an unusual element to Florida’s diverse wildlife, it also presents distinct ecological and public health considerations.
Florida’s Primate Residents and Their Past
The primary species of monkeys found in Florida are rhesus macaques and vervet monkeys. Rhesus macaques, native to Asia, were first introduced to what is now Silver Springs State Park in the 1930s. A boat tour operator, Colonel Tooey, released six rhesus macaques on an island in the Silver River as a tourist attraction. These adaptable monkeys were proficient swimmers and quickly moved into the surrounding forests, establishing a breeding population that grew significantly.
Vervet monkeys, originating from West Africa, likely escaped from a research facility in Dania Beach, near Fort Lauderdale, in the 1940s. A 2020 census indicated about 40 vervet monkeys split into four groups in the area, up from an estimated 36 individuals in the early 1990s.
Where Monkeys Thrive in Florida
Rhesus macaques primarily thrive in central Florida, particularly within and around Silver Springs State Park and along the Ocklawaha River. By 2018, studies indicated 134 macaques in this area. These monkeys are well-suited to the lush forests and waterways of the region, where they can forage and establish social groups.
The vervet monkey population is concentrated in South Florida, specifically near Dania Beach, south of Fort Lauderdale. They inhabit mangrove forests and urban fringes around the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport. Despite being in an urban setting, these monkeys have successfully adapted to the environment, utilizing the available vegetation and resources.
Living Alongside Wild Monkeys
The presence of these non-native monkey populations creates several implications for Florida’s ecosystems and human communities. Rhesus macaques, in particular, are considered an invasive species with documented ecological impacts. They have been observed consuming bird eggs, threatening native bird populations through predation. They have also caused significant damage to mangroves.
Human interactions with these wild monkeys also present challenges. Monkeys accustomed to human presence, especially if fed, can become aggressive, leading to nuisance behaviors, property damage, and the risk of bites or scratches. A significant concern is the potential for disease transmission; rhesus macaques are known carriers of the Herpes B virus, which can be life-threatening to humans if left untreated. While human cases from wild monkey exposure in Florida have not been officially reported, studies have found that a percentage of rhesus macaques in Florida are seropositive for the virus and can shed it.
Current Management and Outlook
State agencies, such as the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), have implemented efforts to manage Florida’s non-native monkey populations. The FWC passed a rule in 2017 prohibiting the feeding of wild monkeys to discourage human-wildlife conflicts and reduce disease transmission risks. This measure aims to prevent monkeys from associating humans with food, which can lead to increased aggression.
Challenges persist in managing these established invasive species, as population control methods like trapping and removal have faced public controversy in the past. For instance, a program that removed hundreds of rhesus macaques from Silver Springs between 1984 and 2012 was halted due to public debate over the sale of these animals for biomedical research. Despite these complexities, monitoring efforts continue, and the FWC supports the removal of these monkeys from the environment to mitigate threats to public safety and ecosystems. The outlook suggests that these adaptable primate populations will continue to be a feature of Florida’s wildlife, necessitating ongoing management strategies to balance their presence with the well-being of native species and human residents.