Pest behaviour of long-tailed macaque (macaca fascicularis) at Pantai Teluk Cempedak, Pahang

The purpose of this study was to determine the pest behaviour of long-tailed macaques (Macaca fascicularis) and to study human perceptions on human-macaque conflict of long tailed at Pantai Teluk Cempedak, Pahang. Data from 90 respondents were collected via direct observations and questionnaires survey. The macaques were observed five days a week, from 0800 to 1200 and 1400 to 1800, for a total of 20 days. The scan interval sampling was also used during the observations. The outcome revealed the most frequent pest behavior as breaking into human areas (29.15%), messing up garbage cans (27.29%), and littering (13.22%). The other observed behavior recorded was disturbing people (7.29%), stealing (7.12%), and the least observed behavior was damaging facilities (3.90%). Questionnaires were distributed randomly to locals and tourists at Pantai Teluk Cempedak. Macaques were frequently seen stealing food and drinks from visitors, disturbing people, and the least observation was damaging facilities. These behaviour were mostly motivated by their desire for simple food, particularly from human waste and public feeding. Large group numbers and poor waste management also contributed to increased human-macaque interactions. To prevent conflict, this study advises improving waste management, and conducting public awareness campaigns Understanding macaque behaviour is necessary for creating successful management techniques and ensuring long-term conservation and interaction of humans and macaques in similar habitats.