A young girl walking home in Lopburi, Thailand, has gone viral after being photographed carrying an airsoft toy gun—not for play, but as a practical solution to a very local problem: monkeys that steal food.

Lopburi, a historic city north of Bangkok, is home to thousands of macaques that roam freely through streets, temples, and residential neighborhoods. While the monkeys are a major tourist attraction, they have also become a daily challenge for local residents. The animals are known for stealing food, chasing pedestrians, and even entering homes in search of snacks.

According to local reports, the girl, identified as Noey, said she had grown tired of repeatedly losing her food to the monkeys on her way home. In response, she began carrying an airsoft toy gun to scare them away. The gun was not used to harm the animals but served as a visual deterrent, helping her keep the monkeys at a distance.

The moment was captured by a wildlife photographer, and the image quickly spread across social media platforms. Many viewers found the scene both humorous and telling, highlighting the unusual ways residents adapt to coexisting with wildlife in Lopburi.

Online reactions were largely sympathetic, with users noting that while tourists often see the monkeys as entertaining, locals must navigate their presence every day. Others pointed out that the photo reflects a broader issue of human-wildlife conflict in urban areas, where animals become increasingly bold due to easy access to food.

Local authorities have long struggled to manage Lopburi’s monkey population, experimenting with measures such as sterilization programs and public campaigns urging people not to feed the animals. Despite these efforts, encounters between residents and monkeys remain a common part of life in the city.

For many, Noey’s viral photo captures more than a quirky moment—it illustrates resilience and adaptability. In a place where monkeys rule the streets, even a child learns creative ways to protect her snacks and make it safely home.