Are There Wild Monkeys In Florida?

The presence of wild monkeys in Florida is a reality, with Silver Springs State Park being home to a large population of Rhesus Macaques, native to South and Southeast Asia. 

The presence of wild monkeys in Florida is a growing concern for local wildlife and human health. While they may seem amusing to some, these non-native primates pose a threat to the state’s ecosystem and potentially transmit diseases to humans.

How Many Rhesus Macaques Are There In Florida?

The Rhesus Macaque population in northern Central Florida is on the rise and has become a matter of concern for wildlife specialists. It is estimated that there are 550 to 600 of these monkeys living in the area, and if their population continues to grow, it could have serious consequences for local birds such as quails. 

As the population of these non-native primates grows, their impact on local wildlife, especially quails, is likely to become more pronounced. It is crucial for authorities to take action to regulate the population of Rhesus Macaques to minimize their impact on the ecosystem.

The Possible Consequences of the Monkey Population in Florida

Rhesus Macaques are known to carry a number of diseases that can be transmitted to humans and other animals. These diseases include Herpes B virus, which can cause serious illness and even death in humans, as well as other diseases such as tuberculosis, simian foamy virus, and others. 

The risk of disease transmission is becoming increasingly significant as the population of Rhesus Macaques grows, and it is important to take steps to mitigate this risk.