It's when animals leave the forest edge and move into farmland
that the relationship with humans becomes less benevolent.
The macaques of the lower forests are as bold as their mountain cousins
and often venture out in search of new opportunities.
There are all sorts of perils, but there are rewards too.
If you're willing to take some risks.
For over a hundred years, people have been growing
the finest fruit and vegetables on these warm, rich soils.
For these cheeky thieves,
it's irresistible.
Growing
perfect produce is a Japanese obsession.
So the last thing people want is marauding macaques.
As the day heats up, the farmers
take a break.
The coast is clear.
They have to be cautious.
If they're spotted, they'll be trouble.
But every day they brave the electric fences.
They know all the weak spots where they can stage their raids
and they
gorge themselves on the fruit of the farmer's labors.
They are almost impossible to stop.
But the farmers are not prepared to give in.
They bring out their secret weapon.
Specially trained monkey dogs.
Now, though,
the Japanese, Shiba Inu is one of the world's oldest breeds
and people have trained them to protect their crops against monkeys.
There's even a Japanese saying that when people are fighting,
they're like a dog in a monkey.
But the rewards outweigh the risks.
They'll be back again tomorrow.