The state of Kerala has been grappling under the stress of man animal conflict and after the cruel murder of pregnant elephant, a monkey with a disfigured face has been spotted in Wayanad. The animal has lost its right eye and nose with its face looking like a vertical hole, presenting a heart-wrenching sight. While the exact reason for the monkey's plight is uncertain, the Forest Department has launched a probe to identify it. The disturbing image was clicked by a Wayanad-based photojournalist. The photographer then shared the picture with Forest Department. One of its hands is also wounded severely, oozing pus said the photographer in his interview to Indian Express.
Meanwhile, wildlife observers have suggested various possibilities as likely causes for the wound. "It could be a hit-and-run case by a vehicle. Monkeys are also susceptible to worsening small wounds as a result of scuffles among them, said Dr Anil Zakariya, a government veterinary doctor in Wayanad. On the wake of the elephant in Palakkad having chewed on explosive-laden fruit, there are chances of the monkey having faced a similar dilemna. On the other hand, farmers and the general public from across Wayanad are raising the issue of monkeys and wild boars posing a threat to life and crop.