Bali Monkeys Engage in Clever Theft at Uluwatu Temple, Holding Tourists’ Valuables for Food
Bali, Indonesia — Visitors to the renowned Uluwatu Temple in Bali have encountered an unexpected challenge: the temple’s long-tailed macaques have been actively stealing tourists’ valuables, including smartphones, wallets, and sunglasses, in a sophisticated attempt to trade the items back in exchange for food.
These mischievous primates, numbering around 600 residents at Uluwatu—a sacred Hindu site perched atop a cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean—have reportedly been engaging in this behavior for decades. Locals regard the monkeys as sacred guardians of the temple, which dates back to the 10th or 11th century. However, their cunning tactics have frustrated many tourists.
According to primate researchers and reports from the Wall Street Journal, the macaques demonstrate remarkable decision-making abilities in their thefts. They selectively target objects that are highly valued by humans, such as phones and glasses, while ignoring less valuable items like hair clips and hats. This level of discernment suggests an "unprecedented economic decision-making process" among the monkeys, a conclusion reached by a research team from the University of Lethbridge after analyzing hundreds of hours of footage.
Tourist Experiences and Monkey Handlers
Jonathan Hammé, a visitor from London who experienced a theft firsthand, described the situation as a "scam" run by the monkeys. Similarly, Taylor Utley, a tourist from Kentucky, recounted how a macaque snatched her phone directly from her hand during her visit. The efforts to recover stolen items often involve "pawang," or monkey handlers, who negotiate for the return of valuables by offering fruit to the primates in exchange.
Monkey handler Ketut Ariana revealed that the animals can steal five to ten smartphones daily, alongside various other belongings. Despite the temple’s attempts to deter these thefts by modifying feeding schedules and offering different types of food, the behavior persists. Kadek Ari Astawa, who coordinates the monkey handlers, explained that once the temple restricted tourists from feeding the macaques, the primates began to steal belongings more frequently.
Cultural Significance and Tourist Caution
While the monkeys are an integral part of the temple’s cultural and spiritual significance, visitors are advised to exercise caution with personal items. The primates’ interactions showcase a unique blend of natural behavior and learned strategies aimed at survival and food acquisition.
The Uluwatu Temple continues to draw tourists worldwide, who are captivated by its scenic ocean views, historic significance, and lively macaque population. However, the temple’s growing reputation for monkey thefts serves as a reminder for tourists to remain vigilant while enjoying the site’s many attractions.
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