Tue Oct 21 15:20:37 UTC 2025: Headline: Tribal Women in Kerala Save Electrocuted Monkey with CPR, Sparking Calls for Wildlife First Aid Training

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM, INDIA – October 21, 2025 – In a remarkable display of compassion, three tribal women from the Vanasamrakshana Samiti (forest protection committee) in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, have successfully revived a baby bonnet macaque after it was electrocuted. The incident occurred near the Kallar Golden Valley forest check-post on Tuesday, along the Vithura–Ponmudi road, when two young monkeys came into contact with a high-tension power line.

Ponmudi Vanasamrakshana Samiti members Udaya, Sachithra, and Saugandhika, all from the Kani tribal settlement in Mottamoodu, Vithura, immediately rushed to the aid of the unconscious monkey, which had fallen to the ground with a head wound. Without hesitation, the women performed cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), administering chest compressions until the monkey miraculously revived. After basic treatment, they released the macaque back into the wild.

“Even though we have suffered greatly due to wild animals and lost crops, we never thought of turning our backs on these baby monkeys,” said Udaya. “Animals do pose a menace to us, yet we have always lived alongside the forest and its creatures.”

Section forest officer Shaji noted that this wasn’t an isolated incident, highlighting a previous case where a forest officer administered CPR to a fallen animal. He emphasized the importance of encouraging Vanasamrakshana Samiti members to act as guardians of the forest and foster empathy for both humans and wildlife.

The heartening rescue has ignited a discussion about the need for formal training in first aid and wildlife rescue techniques for members of Vanasamrakshana Samitis and eco-development committees throughout the state. Authorities are considering implementing such programs to equip these frontline protectors with the skills necessary to respond effectively to wildlife emergencies. This event serves as a poignant reminder of the shared responsibility in preserving the natural world and coexisting peacefully with wildlife.

Read More