Residents to be blamed for "spoilt" monkeys

The Vervet Monkey (Blouaap/ Cercopithecus aethiops) occurs in a wide variety of woodland and tree savannah, including city suburbs. Their diet consists mainly of vegetable foods, but also insects, bird's eggs and small vertebrates. They are active during the day, and sleep at night. They are highly social, living in female-bonded troops including more than one male.

According to Mr Mc Murtrie, it is impossible and downright inhumane to even think of eradicating these creatures from the Soutpansberg Mountain. Since it is a social animal, Mr Mc Murtrie said, one couldn't simply capture it and move it elsewhere. He said they will either move back, and in the process disrupt other family groups, or be killed by others, as they will not be accepted. Mr Mc Murtrie mentioned that shooting one or two would alleviate the problem temporarily but within a short time the problem will recur.

Mr Mc Murtrie said that many people ask the question as to why they have problems with Vervet Monkeys. He stressed the fact that it is not because they are vermin and want to bite children or because it is dry and there is no food in the nearby bush.

"It is simple – We are the problem," Mr Mc Murtrie said. Mr Mc Murtrie explained that many people think of them as cute little animals and try and attract them to their gardens by starting to feed them. Before long, these monkeys will be reluctant to leave again and it is then that the problem starts. He added that people who feed these monkeys are literally signing these animals' death warrant and urged residents to report people who are seen feeding the monkeys, to his department. Mr Mc Murtrie can be contacted at Tel (015) 516 0002 or 082 094 5812.

News - Date: 29 August 2003

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