THAILAND’S CHUNKY MONKEY PLACED ON A DIET

A morbidly obese wild monkey who gorged himself on junk food and soda left behind by tourists has been rescued and placed on a strict diet of lean protein, fruits and vegetables.

Wildlife officials caught the chunky monkey — nicknamed “Uncle Fat” by locals — after photos of the animal started circulating on social media.

Wild monkeys roam free in many parts of Thailand, attracting tourists who feed the animals. Most are macaques like Uncle Fat, and weigh around nine kilograms (20 pounds). Uncle Fat weighs three times that, tipping the scales at around 26 kg (60 lbs.).

“He had minions and other monkeys bringing food for him but he would also re-distribute it to younger monkeys,” said veterinarian Supakarn Kaewchot.