Florida, known for its diverse ecosystems and unique wildlife, hosts a surprising population of wild monkeys. These primates are not native to the Sunshine State but have established thriving communities. Their presence often sparks curiosity about their origins and the types of monkeys that call Florida home.
Meet Florida’s Wild Monkey Species
Among the non-native primates in Florida, the rhesus macaque (Macaca mulatta) and the vervet monkey (Chlorocebus sabaeus) are the most prominent species with established breeding populations. Rhesus macaques are medium-sized monkeys, typically weighing between 11 and 17 pounds, characterized by their reddish-brown fur and long tails. These intelligent and social animals adapt well to diverse habitats.
Vervet monkeys, native to Africa, possess pale grey-green fur and distinct black faces. They are smaller than rhesus macaques, generally living in groups. While rhesus macaques are more widespread, vervet monkeys are primarily concentrated in a specific area of South Florida. Squirrel monkeys (Saimiri spp.) also had established populations in Florida, though their numbers have significantly declined.
How Monkeys Came to Florida
The introduction of rhesus macaques to Florida dates back to the 1930s at Silver Springs State Park. A commercial riverboat captain, Colonel Tooey, released approximately six rhesus macaques onto an island in the Silver River, intending to boost tourism. Unbeknownst to him, rhesus macaques are strong swimmers, and they quickly swam to the mainland, establishing a wild population. This initial group, along with another six released in 1948, formed the foundation of the large rhesus macaque population now found around Silver Springs and the Cross Florida Greenway.
Vervet monkeys arrived in Florida in the 1940s, escaping from the Anthropoid Ape Research Foundation in Dania Beach, south of Fort Lauderdale. This facility imported primates from Africa for biomedical research. Genetic research has confirmed that these monkeys originated from Sierra Leone and were brought to the Dania Chimpanzee Farm. After their escape, they settled in the mangrove forests near the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, where their descendants continue to reside.
Impact and Management of Wild Monkey Populations
Non-native monkey populations in Florida can have various effects on the local ecosystem and human communities. Rhesus macaques, in particular, are considered an invasive species due to their potential for ecological and health impacts. They consume a wide variety of plants and have been observed preying on bird eggs, which could affect native bird populations. Their presence can also lead to competition with native wildlife for available resources.
A significant concern associated with rhesus macaques is their potential to carry and transmit Herpes B virus (Macacine herpesvirus 1), which is typically harmless to monkeys but can be life-threatening to humans. While human infections are rare, the virus can cause severe neurological damage or even death if untreated. Rhesus macaques in Silver Springs State Park shed the virus, posing a potential risk with increased human-monkey interaction. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has been addressing these concerns, noting that these monkeys can pose human health and safety risks, including injury and disease transmission.
Encountering Wild Monkeys
When encountering wild monkeys in Florida, maintaining a safe distance is strongly advised for both human and animal well-being. Approaching or feeding these animals is discouraged, as it can lead to increased aggression and a dependency on humans for food. Feeding wild monkeys is prohibited in Florida and can result in a second-degree misdemeanor, punishable by fines or even jail time. Such interactions also heighten the risk of bites, scratches, and potential disease transmission, including the Herpes B virus.
If you encounter a wild monkey, observe it from a distance and avoid any direct contact. Should a monkey pose an imminent threat, contact the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). The FWC operates a Wildlife Alert Hotline for reporting such incidents and seeking assistance. Taking photos from a safe distance and noting the location can also be helpful for authorities.