What is all this Monkey Business in Ocala?

Protesters to target trapping of monkeys

A Rhesus monkey relaxes on a branch overlooking the Silver river in Silver Springs, Fl on Sunday May 22, 2004. The monkeys have been a curiosity and attraction along the river and eastern Marion County since their descendants escaped from an attraction at Silver Springs in the 1930's. Throughout the years they have been the subject of studies, fear and legislation but today they are simply an interesting attraction along the natural and unspoiled river that runs through Silver River State Park.

The ancestors of today’s primates were purchased from a traveling circus and introduced at the attraction some 70 years ago.

Ever since they have existed along the banks of the Silver River as extras on the park’s jungle-themed stage.