Bali Monkeys Engaged in Unique “Theft-for-Food” Exchange with Tourists at Uluwatu Temple
Bali, Indonesia — Visitors to the renowned Uluwatu Temple in Bali have encountered an unusual phenomenon: local long-tailed macaque monkeys are reportedly stealing valuables from tourists, only to exchange the items later for food rewards. This peculiar behavior, described by some as a calculated "scam," is drawing attention for its insights into primate intelligence and the complex interactions between wildlife and humans.
Sacred Monkeys and a Historic Site
The Uluwatu Temple, a Hindu site dating back to the 10th or 11th century, perches dramatically on a cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean. It is home to approximately 600 long-tailed macaques, which are regarded by many locals as sacred guardians of the temple. Over the years, these monkeys have developed a reputation beyond their spiritual role — they have become adept at interacting with human visitors in surprising ways.
Monkeys Target High-Value Items
According to research highlighted by the Wall Street Journal, the macaques at Uluwatu exhibit an extraordinary ability to differentiate between items of high and low perceived value to humans. While they might shun or ignore lower-value items like hair clips or hats, phones, wallets, and sunglasses routinely pique their interest. These primates are estimated to steal between five to ten smartphones daily, along with other personal belongings.
This behavior is not random but appears strategic. Experts from the University of Lethbridge analyzed hundreds of hours of footage and concluded that the monkeys demonstrate unprecedented economic decision-making processes for non-human animals. The thefts function as a form of barter: monkeys take tourists’ valuables and return them only after being rewarded with fruit or other foods.
Monkey Handlers Facilitate the Returns
The resolution of these theft incidents often involves “pawang,” or monkey handlers, who play a key role in orchestrating the food-for-item exchanges. These handlers negotiate with the monkeys, offering fruit to entice them to relinquish stolen goods. For instance, tourist Taylor Utley from Kentucky recalled how a handler had to repeatedly present bags of fruit to retrieve her phone from a monkey.
“The monkeys have taken over the temple,” said London tourist Jonathan Hammé after a macaque stole his sunglasses. “They’re running a scam,” he added with a mix of amusement and frustration.
Efforts to Curtail Theft Unsuccessful
Temple authorities have attempted various strategies to reduce these thefts, including altering the monkeys’ feeding schedules and providing different foods. However, these measures have yet to effectively deter the thieving behavior. Coordination among handlers continues, but the monkeys’ scheme persists.
Kadek Ari Astawa, who coordinates the handlers, noted that in earlier years, tourists occasionally fed the macaques freely. When the temple restricted this practice, the monkeys apparently responded by escalating their thefts as a means of procuring food.
An Insight into Primate Behavior and Human-Wildlife Interaction
The Uluwatu macaques’ antics provide a fascinating glimpse into primate cognition and their ability to engage in complex social exchanges with humans. While the situation presents challenges for tourists and temple management alike, it also highlights the adaptability and intelligence of these animals.
Visitors to Bali are advised to remain vigilant about their belongings when visiting the Uluwatu Temple and to observe local guidelines to ensure both their safety and that of the monkeys. The ongoing interactions between humans and macaques here exemplify the delicate balance in shared spaces between wildlife and tourism.
As this “monkey business” continues, it serves as a reminder of the unexpected ways animals can navigate and influence human environments, blending mischief with remarkable smarts.
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