Meeting the Macaques of Mauritius
Mauritius macaques, introduced to the island in the 17th century, are playful and intelligent primates often seen in the island’s forests, adding charm to the island's wildlife.
AFRICA
2/4/20256 min read
Monkey Business.
One of my favorite activities in Mauritius is visiting Black River Gorges park (map link at the bottom) where you can find beautiful vista and the mischievous Macaques. I like to go to a local farmers market beforehand and buy large bags of apples, carrots and of course, bananas to feed the monkeys. The best time of day is around 4PM when the tourists start to leave, you'll be lucky enough to be completely alone with these amazing animals. I was fortunate to hand feed them as you watch a beautiful sunset with an expansive view of the gorges leading out to the coast. A must for any photographer and animal lover to experience this magic moment in nature.
Carrots Work
Of course, these little guys LOVE bananas but I've learned that if you want them to linger for some good photo opportunities, carrots work best. This is because they can peel a banana in one second, often using their feet - and then dash off - whereas they seem to eat carrots very slowly, perhaps because they're not used to eating root vegetables. Carrots will get you that long photograph & video. Please be warned, these are wild animals, fast and strong with very sharp teeth, so caution is paramount. Slow movements, no sudden noises, hand them their treats in a calm manner and you'll be better off. Sometimes politics will play out where the more dominant ones will enact revenge on the smaller ones so just be aware of the vibe. Once I brought a single tangerine to film them peeling it and somehow this caused a major ruckus and a dozen of them set upon the one lucky monkey that received the citrus and they gave him quite a lashing, I stopped bringing oranges after that and stuck to carrots, apples and bananas...
The Rich History of the Macaques
If you’re planning a visit to Mauritius, you might be intrigued by its remarkable wildlife, notably the playful macaques. These charming monkeys are not only a delightful sight for nature lovers but also an integral part of the island's ecological history. The black river gorges park is where you can find these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat, providing an excellent opportunity to appreciate their playful antics while immersing yourself in the breathtaking scenery of Mauritius.
The history of the macaques in Mauritius is rich and colorful. Originally imported from Asia, these monkeys found a new home on the island, adapting well to their environment. Over time, they became a staple attraction for tourists. Their lively presence and social behaviors are fascinating, drawing visitors who seek a close-up on the local wildlife. Not much is written about how they first came to inhabit Mauritius, but what remains clear is their contribution to the island's allure.
Why Visit Black River Gorges Park
When you visit Mauritius, spending a day at Black River Gorges National Park is a must. This park is home to the macaques, along with a diverse array of flora and fauna. As you hike or explore the trails, you may observe these curious monkeys swinging from the trees or grooming each other, which is a bonding activity for them. The park offers stunning views of gorges and endemic species, making it the perfect backdrop for observing the macaques in action.
Engaging with these lively animals is not just fun but also educational. By observing their social structures and behaviors, visitors can gain insights into the broader ecosystem of Mauritius. Along with stunning vistas and exotic plants, the experience of witnessing the macaques in their habitat is certainly one for the books!
To make the most of your visit, bring along a camera; you'll want to capture these delightful moments. Whether you're hiking, picnicking, or simply soaking up the scenery, the black river gorges park is remarkable not just for its natural beauty but also for the playful macaques that call it home.
Monkey Love
The monkeys of Mauritius, mainly the crab-eating macaque and the green monkey, have been part of the island’s landscape since the 17th century when European sailors introduced them. These monkeys have adapted well to their new environment, with the population now estimated between 25,000 and 60,000. Their presence has had a big impact on the island’s ecology, contributing to the decline of native species and disrupting the unique biodiversity of Mauritius.
The crab-eating macaque, often seen in places like Black River Gorges and La Vanille Nature Park, has become iconic for the island. These monkeys live in complex social groups, with communication that includes vocalizations, gestures, and deep emotional bonds. They form close friendships within the group, help each other in times of need, and navigate social hierarchies.
While these monkeys are fascinating, they sometimes cause problems for farmers, as their foraging behavior can damage crops. This has led to population control measures, like trapping and culling. Conservation efforts are underway, with organizations focused on habitat restoration, controlling invasive species, and involving local communities in protecting wildlife. However, balancing agriculture with conservation remains a challenge.
Mauritius' history of human settlement, starting with the arrival of Europeans in the 17th century, led to the introduction of these monkeys and other species, drastically changing the island’s ecosystem. Today, the monkeys of Mauritius serve as a reminder of the complex relationship between human activity and wildlife, and the ongoing need to find solutions that protect both.
In addition to the monkeys, Mauritius is home to a range of unique wildlife, including native bats and plants. But invasive species, habitat loss, and climate change pose significant threats to all of these species. Conservation organizations are working hard to protect Mauritius' biodiversity, but the situation is complicated by ongoing human development and the spread of non-native species.
The monkeys' cultural impact is also significant. Some see them as a symbol of the island’s heritage, while others view them as pests due to their crop-raiding habits. This has led to mixed public opinion, but efforts to educate and involve local communities in conservation are helping to improve relationships between people and monkeys. Ecotourism is also seen as a way to create economic opportunities while encouraging wildlife protection.
As Mauritius faces ongoing environmental and cultural challenges, the monkeys of the island serve as a key example of the delicate balance needed between human development and preserving the natural world.
In conclusion, the history of the monkeys of Mauritius, particularly the macaques in Black River Gorges Park, is a unique aspect of the island's charm. Their story continues to connect visitors to the island's rich heritage, making a trip to see them a must for any wildlife enthusiast.
Black River Gorges:
How to get there
Easily accessible from Tamarin or the town of Vacoas, you can either hire a taxi to take you or drive, be wary of the curvy roads, speedy local drivers and some pretty steep inclines. Be ready to going both up and downhill if going via Chamarel, use lower gears on the way down so you don't overwork your brakes. More cautious drivers are advised to go via Vacoas as it's less of a climb in that direction.
Fill your gas tank before the trip as there are no petrol stations nearby so it's a good idea to have a full tank and bring some water, snacks and flashlights etc...
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