Daltonganj: In a novel strategy to tackle the growing monkey menace, the Medininagar forest division would plant ‘Jungle Jalebi’ trees across its ranges, aiming to keep primates within forested areas and away from human habitation.Known as ‘Madras Thorn’ or ‘Manila Tamarind’, the ‘Pithecellobium dulce’ is a nutritious wild fruit relished by diverse wildlife species — from squirrels and parrots to mynahs and monkeys.Calling the tree as “an effective deterrent against human-monkey conflict”, divisional forest officer (DFO) Satyam Kumar said, “Jungle Jalebi trees are like monkey pods. If they are present in forests, monkeys tend to stay there instead of straying into villages in search of food.”Officials said monkey menace rivals the Nilgai problem in the region. While Nilgais rarely damage homes, monkeys often wreak havoc. “They can dislodge tiled roofs and smash them,” a forest guard said.Another official described monkeys as the “number one enemy of farmers of guavas, especially the Thai guava”.The division also plans to plant tamarind, amla, and jackfruit trees. “These are people friendly species that benefit both wildlife and local communities,” Kumar said.The Manatu forest range has already raised hundreds of saplings at the Sevti nursery to plant them after monsoon picks pace.
