Monkey-proof bins to reduce litter at local zoo

THE eThekwini Municipality is hoping to purchase monkey-proof bins in a bid to combat litter spreading through the Mitchell Park Zoo and park.

The zoo has long been a topic of debate in the Durban community. In recent years, residents have taken to social media, raising alarm bells over litter and maintenance. Last week the zoo became a hot topic again as a photo of a parrot was circulated with social media users expressing their shock at the bird’s condition. The SPCA has since reported that all is in order at the zoo.

Last week, Berea Mail visited the zoo to hear what the community thought of its conditions. There were mixed reviews as some residents noted a marked improvement at the zoo while others saw room for improvement.

Commenting on the zoo conditions, spokesperson for the eThekwini Municipality, Msawakhe Mayisela said, “We are looking at purchasing monkey-proof bins, but funding has been limited. We are hoping that we will be able to purchase them soon. We ask that residents also play their part by not littering and making use of the bins allocated.”

ALSO READ:SPCA inspect parrot in ‘terrible condition’ at Mitchell Park Zoo

He added that there is a high litter volume at the park despite regular cleaning.

“The zoo and park is cleaned every morning, and staff are on hand during the day to monitor and clean. We do have a lot of public that utilise the public park, especially on weekends, and we find that our staff do have to spend their time picking up after the public and chasing after the monkeys who regularly come through after we have cleaned up and empty out all the rubbish again,” said Mayisela.

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The park will soon be home to a municipal library. A library located at Windermere Centre, which closed last year will soon move to the park.

“We can confirm that the library will be moved to the old Blue Zoo premises, the public will be updated on this matter at a later stage,” said Mayisela.

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