When it comes to Florida’s wildlife, the first animals that come to mind are usually alligators, sharks or manatees.

However, monkeys are also a staple within Central Florida, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

These monkeys — called “rhesus macaques” — were originally brought to Florida by the manager of a glass-bottom boat operation, who released six on an island in the Silver River to attract tourists.

However, the monkeys swam away from the island into the surrounding forest, breeding and increasing their numbers over the years.

While the population of monkeys in the Silver Springs State Park has reached as high as 400 at some points, trapping and removal efforts have kept them from getting out…