11 monkeys found ded in Devarayanadurga forest, poisoning suspected

TUMAKURU: Eleven monkeys, including two langurs, were found dead in the Devarayanadurga forest area, sparking suspicions of poisoning. The forest department is awaiting FSL reports to determine the cause of death.

The carcasses of the monkeys were found over two days, with seven on the first day and four on the second. Post-mortem exams revealed food in their intestines, and samples have been sent for analysis.

Deputy Forest Officer (DFO) G R Sridhar told Public TV, “Nine monkeys and two of the langurs died. The exact cause is still unclear. Post-mortem exams showed food in their intestines and we’ve sent samples for analysis. It’s possible they ate food discarded by tourists or were intentionally poisoned. We’ll know more once the reports come in”.

Locals are angry, blaming outsiders and suggesting the monkey nuisance might have led to the act. The Forest department says there’s no indication of disease and assured the public that there is no need to panic. The autopsy tesults are expected in two days.