Winter in the mountains was cold, with the air crisp and the trees bare of most leaves. The ground was scattered with frost, and the streams carried icy water. While many animals stayed hidden to conserve energy, the troop of wild monkeys still roamed the area, searching for food.
Bananas aren’t naturally found in their winter environment, but thanks to kind locals and visitors, the monkeys often received these golden treats even during the cold season. For them, a banana in winter was like a warm, sweet gift from nature.
On this chilly morning, a group of monkeys gathered near the feeding spot — a flat stone area where visitors usually left food. Their fur was fluffed up to keep warm, and they huddled close together, watching for signs of food arrival. Soon, a person carrying a basket approached, and the monkeys’ eyes lit up instantly. The basket was full of bright yellow bananas.
The moment the first banana was set down, a large male monkey stepped forward confidently, peeling it in a matter of seconds. He ate quickly, using both hands to hold the fruit, while keeping a sharp eye on the others. Younger monkeys hopped around excitedly, waiting for their turn. Some tried to grab bananas directly, while others patiently sat a short distance away until they were given one.
One small juvenile monkey received a banana and carefully peeled it halfway before taking tiny bites. He seemed to savor each piece, holding the fruit delicately with his tiny fingers. In contrast, an older female simply bit through the skin and fruit together, not wasting time with peeling.
Even in the cold air, the sweet scent of bananas seemed to warm the scene. The monkeys’ breath formed small clouds as they chewed, and bits of banana stuck to their whiskers. A mother monkey held her banana in one hand while her baby clung to her belly, occasionally reaching out to steal a bite. She didn’t seem to mind, sharing the treat with gentle patience.
Bananas not only provided energy but also brought the troop together in a moment of calm. There was no fighting today, just the joy of eating. As the feeding continued, more monkeys joined, and soon the stone feeding spot was surrounded by soft chattering, peeling sounds, and the rhythmic munching of content animals.
When the last banana was eaten, the monkeys lingered for a while, cleaning their fur or licking their fingers. Then, slowly, they moved back into the forest, carrying the warmth and energy from their winter feast.
Even in the harshest seasons, a simple act of feeding could create moments of comfort, happiness, and connection between humans and these fascinating creatures.
