5 things you must know to keep vervet monkeys at bay

IN light of the recent shootings of vervet monkeys in the north Durban area, Northglen News spoke to Monkey Helpline’s Steve Smit, who outlined five ways to help deal, in a humane way, with the inquisitive primates. Last week the NPO was called out to a case where a young vervet monkey was shot through the neck with a pellet gun. The monkey later died.

1. Monkeys are naturally wary of snakes, so realistic rubber snakes placed around your home or garden can discourage them. Don’t leave a rubber snake in the same spot too long otherwise the vervets will get used to its immobility and ignore it. Attach a length of thin nylon or string to the snake and tug it into motion when the vervets are close to it.

2. Insect-proof screens on windows and doors serve an additional function of keeping vervets out of homes. Plastic mesh on windows and security doors/gates is also easily fitted and very effective.

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3. Vervets have very keen senses of taste and smell. They can be discouraged from eating fruit, flowers and vegetables by spraying or brushing these with a liquid containing quinine, chili, insect or pet repellent or any other distasteful but non-lethal substance that can be washed off. Dry curry, chili or tobacco powder also works well in flower/vegetable beds.

4. Prevent foraging in refuse bins by securing the lids with a convenient but vervet-proof clip or strap. Sprinkle Jeyes Fluid inside, on the outside or around refuse bins and bags. Refuse skips covered with shade cloth and treated with Jeyes Fluid will deter vervets.

5. Use nylon bird or hail netting over and around vegetable, strawberry and other produce gardens to keep them out.

For rescues contact Monkey Helpline on 082 659 4711 or 082 411 5444.

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