Management of Coexistence and Conflicts Between Humans and Macaques in Japan

Area of Science:

• Wildlife Ecology
• Conservation Biology
• Human-Wildlife Conflict Studies

Background:

• Human-macaque conflicts (Japanese macaques, *Macaca fuscata*) have escalated in Japan.
• Urban and agricultural expansion has reduced macaque habitats, driving them into human settlements.
• Increased macaque populations exacerbate property damage, crop loss, and aggressive encounters.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and analyze strategies for managing human-macaque coexistence in Japan.
• To identify effective methods for mitigating conflicts arising from macaque presence in human-dominated landscapes.
• To explore integrated approaches for long-term human-macaque coexistence.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on human-macaque conflict management in Japan since the 1970s.
• Analysis of preventive measures, non-lethal deterrents, physical barriers, and fertility control methods.
• Examination of lethal control, capture-relocation, and the integration of One Health and One Conservation principles.

Main Results:

• A range of strategies exist, from habitat modification and deterrents to fertility control and physical barriers.
• Preventive measures and non-lethal deterrents offer immediate but often temporary solutions.
• Long-term solutions like fertility control and physical barriers require significant resources and community cooperation.
• Lethal control and relocation remain controversial options for severe cases.
• Integrated approaches considering ecological, health, and ethical factors are essential.

Conclusions:

• Mitigating human-macaque conflict necessitates a balanced, multi-faceted management plan.
• Community participation and continuous monitoring are critical for successful coexistence.
• Adopting One Health and One Conservation frameworks can lead to more holistic and sustainable management strategies.