Holmberg's Morning Sickness - Arizona Episode Summary: July 25, 2025 Episode Title: Thailand Province Has A Monkey Problem Trying To Round Up 2500 Of Them

Introduction

In this episode of Holmberg's Morning Sickness on 98 KUPD, Host John Holmberg, along with his co-hosts Brady Bogen, Bret Vesely, and Dick Toledo, delves into a pressing environmental and tourism issue unfolding in Thailand. The discussion centers around the burgeoning population of macaque monkeys in Lopburi, a province renowned for its temples and as a tourist hotspot.

The Monkey Invasion in Lopburi

Timestamp: 02:50 - 04:10

John Holmberg introduces the main topic by highlighting the escalating monkey population in Lopburi, Thailand. The province is grappling with approximately 2,500 macaque monkeys that have become a nuisance in both residential and tourist areas.

• John Holmberg mentions, "These Thai monkeys are being arrested. And it's a huge problem because they...” (03:35)

The hosts discuss how these monkeys are not only disrupting daily life but also affecting the local economy by deterring tourists who visit temples like the famous Phra Prang Sam Yot, known for its monkey inhabitants.

Impact on Tourism and Local Communities

Timestamp: 04:10 - 07:00

The conversation shifts to the broader impact on tourism and the challenges faced by the locals. The monkeys frequently invade restaurants and tourist sites, leading to confrontations and unsafe conditions.

• Dick Toledo humorously remarks, "Their nipples look like your pinky finger, as in caterpillars or worms depending on the color of course of their skin.” (02:05)

The hosts lament the cultural significance of these temples and how the monkey problem threatens to tarnish Lopburi's reputation as a tranquil tourist destination.

Attempted Solutions and Their Consequences

Timestamp: 07:00 - 12:50

The discussion moves to the local authorities' efforts to manage the monkey population. Plans to round up and possibly slaughter 2,500 monkeys have sparked controversy and ethical debates.

• John Holmberg states, "They're gonna do a big... a huge monkey slaughter this week.” (04:41)

Proposed solutions include relocating the monkeys or implementing stricter controls to prevent their interactions with humans. However, these measures face opposition due to the monkeys' protected status and cultural importance.

• Bret Vesely suggests, "Let's bring a couple of leopards back to the temple area.” (07:23), highlighting the chaotic nature of potential solutions.

The hosts creatively explore hypothetical and humorous methods to control the population, such as introducing predators like panthers or hyenas, which only adds to the complexity and absurdity of the situation.

Ethical and Environmental Considerations

Timestamp: 12:50 - 16:45

The conversation deepens into the ethical implications of culling animals to protect human interests. The hosts express concern over the welfare of the monkeys and the environmental impact of such actions.

• John Holmberg questions, "What are you gonna do? We're probably enclosing... They're not gonna be alive when you enclose them?” (12:31)

They debate the balance between preserving wildlife and maintaining public safety and economic stability. The episode underscores the tension between tourism-driven economies and sustainable wildlife management.

Conclusion and Reflections

Timestamp: 16:45 - End

As the episode wraps up, the hosts reflect on the broader lessons from Lopburi's monkey problem. They emphasize the need for humane and sustainable solutions that respect both the animals and the communities affected by them.

• John Holmberg concludes, "Anywhere I go, a monkey takes my... I'm punching that thing as hard as I can.” (11:33), highlighting personal frustrations while underscoring the universal challenges of human-wildlife coexistence.

The hosts commend the efforts of local authorities while urging listeners to consider the complexities of wildlife management in tourist-heavy regions.

Notable Quotes

• John Holmberg: "They're gonna round up 2,500 monkeys that hang around this temple. Think about that.” (04:10)

• Dick Toledo: "I did try out the 80 year olds. He said, I'll tell you this, their nipples look like your pinky finger.” (02:05)

• Bret Vesely: "Let's bring a couple of leopards back to the temple area.” (07:23)

• John Holmberg: "What are you gonna do? We're probably enclosing them. Very easy. Very easy to do.” (12:35)

Final Thoughts

This episode offers a compelling look into the challenges faced by Lopburi, Thailand, as it seeks to manage an overpopulated monkey community. Through engaging discussions and insightful commentary, Holmberg and his co-hosts shed light on the delicate interplay between tourism, wildlife conservation, and community well-being. Listeners gain a nuanced understanding of the complexities involved in balancing human interests with environmental stewardship.