Seasonal electrocution fatalities in free-range rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta) of Shivalik hills area in northern India.

BACKGROUND

The arboreal nature of rhesus macaques makes them vulnerable to electrocution from high-voltage industrial supply as well as low-tension domestic wires. The data on pattern of electrocution injuries and electrocution mortalities in free-ranging rhesus macaques are rarely reported.

METHODS

From January 2011 to 2013, the cases of accidental electrocution injuries were recorded in difference to sex, age group, season, body region distribution, contact details, and extent of injuries in free-ranging rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta) of Shivalik hill areas.

RESULTS

electrocution injuries were highest in juveniles (52.05%), followed by adults (30.13%) and old (10.95%) rhesus macaques. Of the 73 cases recorded, 23 (31.50%) succumbed to death following severe electrocution and associated injuries. The intensity and body region distribution of electrocution injuries was recorded.

CONCLUSION

High-voltage current is the most common factor for fatal injuries. Strategies to avoid such electrocutions include burying all lines and transformers, shielding and insulating all high-tension lines, installing bridges that monkeys, and other arboreal species can use to move around.