Orange farmers in Bhojpur District, eastern Nepal, have started harvesting their fruit earlier than usual after increasing damage caused by monkeys. Traditionally, orange harvests in the region begin in November and continue through December, but this year, growers began picking in October to limit losses.
Local farmers report that large groups of monkeys have been raiding orchards and damaging crops, not only consuming oranges but also attacking mango, avocado, and other fruit trees. The animals break branches and cause structural damage to plants, creating long-term losses for orchard owners.
"It has become very difficult to maintain farming," said Bhim Prasad Phuyal, a grower from Bhojpur Municipality-5, Bokhim. "Monkeys harass the gardens from morning till evening. Even if we throw stones to scare them away, they cannot be controlled. If they get into the garden for even a short time, they destroy the crops. There is no way to protect fruits and grains once they are on the plants."
Orange production is a major source of income in Bhojpur, but farmers say yields and quality have been declining in recent years due to persistent wildlife pressure. Grower Gita Karki said that harvesting early has further affected fruit size and quality, leading to reduced prices in the market.
Producers are urging local authorities and agricultural agencies to take immediate measures to control the monkey population and safeguard the region's fruit production.
Source: Khabarhub
