Peradeniya University Veterinary Faculty Senior Professor Ashoka Dangolla has revealed that female monkeys are now becoming pregnant throughout the year, marking the first time such a trend has been scientifically documented.
Professor Dangolla explained that this phenomenon demonstrates how monkeys adapt their lifestyles when living close to human settlements. “When monkeys are around humans, they gain access to abundant food and better nutrition. This, coupled with increased opportunities for mating, has led to year-round pregnancies,” he said.
He pointed out that while female monkeys traditionally gave birth every 18 months, recent research shows that many are now pregnant regardless of the time they are captured. The findings also suggest that monkeys in these environments have significantly altered their feeding habits.
The research further revealed that the presence of monkeys near human settlements is changing their impact on agriculture. Professor Dangolla noted that the damage caused to fruit orchards, particularly during harvest seasons, has shifted in pattern due to these behavioral changes.
He pointed out that the studies clearly show how human-populated environments are rapidly reshaping the reproductive cycles and lifestyles of wild animals.
