Before monkey-prroof latches were installed in Bukit Kiara (Animal Neighbours Project)

Co-existing with the Wild in the Valley

The Klang Valley’s rapid development threatens not only our local biodiversity but also the delicate balance required for harmonious coexistence between humans and wildlife, writes wildlife conservation advocate Ashwiini Paranjothi.

WILDLIFE IS NOT limited to distant forests; it is present in our cities, adapting to urban life as green spaces shrink. Urban forests like Bukit Kiara and Bukit Gasing in the Klang Valley are home to a variety of species that now share their habitat with humans. The increased proximity has led to more frequent interactions and, unfortunately, more conflicts.

(Feature pic: When monkeys create chaos in neighbourhoods, human patience can run thin. | photo by Animal Neighbours Project)

We must recognise that much of the land we built on once belonged to these animals. They have had to adjust to new environments and circumstances, often to their detriment. Co-existence is possible, but it requires us to rethink how we share our spaces with wildlife.

Human-wildlife conflict is a multifaceted issue that often arises due to a lack of tolerance for wildlife. The truth is these conflicts are rarely straightforward. They involve multiple factors, including the behaviour of both animals and humans and how we use shared environments.

Fear for human safety, inconvenience, and property damage are common concerns that lead to negative interactions with animals.

This troop of over 20 monkeys at Bukit Kiara shares the walkway with humans (Animal Neighbours Project)
This troop of over 20 monkeys at Bukit Kiara shares the walkway with humans (Animal Neighbours Project)

For instance, in 2021, the Department of Wildlife and National Parks Peninsular Malaysia (PERHILITAN) received over 12,000 complaints from all over the peninsula about disturbances caused by species like long-tailed macaques, pig-tailed macaques, wild boars, and civet cats. In response, nearly 70,000 macaques were culled that year alone.

These numbers highlight the urgent need for more effective and humane strategies to foster coexistence rather than rely on drastic measures. The high rate of culling not only reflects our struggle to manage these conflicts but also highlights the need for more compassionate and sustainable solutions.

It is crucial that non-invasive methods be prioritised. Understanding the motivations behind conflicts is crucial. It is essential to maintain good welfare standards for wildlife and ensure that our actions do not exacerbate the situation.

Poorly designed mitigation strategies can worsen conflicts, leading to frustration among people and more aggressive behaviours from animals. We need to find balanced solutions that respect both human needs and wildlife welfare.

Involve locals

A good start is to engage local communities through interviews and observations to gather insights into the behaviours of both humans and animals. This participatory approach ensures that the strategies we develop are grounded in local context and have the support of those who live alongside wildlife.

For instance, the Animal Neighbours Project built a monkey-proof bin latch to address complaints about monkeys foraging in bins of residential areas. This solution, developed in collaboration with community members, has proven effective in reducing such incidents while ensuring the safety and welfare of both humans and wildlife.

Over time, residents have observed that the monkeys gradually lose interest in the bins once they notice the latches are secured. These brilliant animals have learned that latches mean no access to the contents inside.

Monkeys became difficult to manage (above) when it came to rubbish in Bukit Kiara (left) and Bukit Gasing. But once monkey-proof latches were installed on bins (below), the rubbish problem disappeared (Animal Neighbours Project)
Monkeys became difficult to manage (above) when it came to rubbish in Bukit Kiara (left) and Bukit Gasing. But once monkey-proof latches were installed on bins (below), the rubbish problem disappeared (Animal Neighbours Project)

In the end, conflict with wildlife is not just a matter for the wildlife department. Local communities need to be empowered to find sustainable solutions to these conflicts. They can actively participate in finding sustainable solutions to these growing challenges.

By equipping people with the right tools and knowledge, we can foster a culture of coexistence and respect for the wildlife that shares our urban environment.

The conservation of our urban wildlife is not just about protecting animals; it’s about maintaining the delicate balance of our ecosystems and preserving the natural heritage that defines our identity as Malaysians.

Looking after biodiversity

Living in one of the world’s last remaining biodiversity hotspots, safeguarding our wildlife and natural ecosystems is crucial to staying within the ecological ceiling of biodiversity, as outlined in Doughnut Economics.

By conserving these ecosystems, we prevent biodiversity overshoot, ensuring that our natural resources continue to support human well-being and sustainable development. Each of us has a role to play in this.

Now, we stand at a crossroads – will we design a future where concrete dominates, or will we nurture a city that thrives alongside nature? Whether it is advocating for more green spaces, supporting non-invasive wildlife management strategies, or simply being more mindful of our interactions with wildlife, we can all contribute to a future where humans and animals coexist peacefully.

 “In the end, we will only conserve what we love; we will only love what we understand; and we will only understand what we are taught.” — Baba Dioum

Ashwiini Paranjothi, Vice President of the Animal Neighbours Project, has been a part of the team for 3 years now. As a lifelong wildlife conservation advocate and a current sustainability practitioner, she wants to create healthy boundaries between communities and wildlife. She believes there are many opportunities for coexistence and that humans have the ability to create change and make a meaningful impact.

[Edited by SL Wong]

The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of Macaranga.

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