Monkeys Steal People’s for Food

Yes, this is a real and fascinating behavior observed in some monkey populations, particularly among long-tailed macaques (Macaca fascicularis) in places like Uluwatu Temple in Bali, Indonesia.

Here’s how it works:

1. Monkeys steal items – such as glasses, hats, phones, flip-flops, or cameras – from unsuspecting tourists.

2. They hold the item “hostage” – keeping it out of reach.

3. They wait for a trade – often giving it back only when offered food, especially high-value treats like peanuts or fruit.