Japanese macaques invade villages in Azumino, prompting conflict over non-lethal deterrence vs. culling.

In Japan’s Northern Alps, Azumino residents face rising conflicts with Japanese macaques invading homes and farms. A volunteer Monkey Chasing Squad uses noise, GPS, and barriers to deter monkeys, reducing their presence in villages but not eliminating encounters. While economic damage is lower than from boars or deer, growing proximity to humans fuels debate: some advocate non-lethal coexistence, while others support targeted culling. Experts warn culling may disrupt troop dynamics and worsen the problem. Long-term, ecologically informed strategies are needed as human-wildlife tensions persist.