Call for vigilance on roads frequented by monkeys

EMDLOTI residents are urging motorists to be careful of monkeys that might be roaming the area. Last week, a monkey was killed after it was knocked on Bellamont Road. A concerned resident took to Facebook, urging motorists to be careful when using the road.

Monkey Helpline’s Steve Smit said one of the ways to curb accidents resulting in the deaths of monkeys was the erection of speed humps.

“The issue of vervet monkeys being run over in Bellamont Road is ongoing, even along the section of the road where speed humps have been introduced.  This recent incident involving the baby monkey is evidence that unless motor vehicle drivers are alert to the presence of wild animals crossing this road, and exercise caution when driving, monkeys and other resident wildlife will continue to become victims, usually dying as the result,” said Smit.

eMdloti councillor Geoff Pullan said he’s received a number of calls regarding similar incidents in the area.

“It is not just in Bellamont Road. Monkeys are everywhere. I have received similar complaints. We are still trying to find the suitable solution for this problem,” said Pullan.

Also read: Monkeys being shot on a daily basis in La Lucia/uMhlanga 

Smit added that they were inundated with calls not only regarding monkeys, but other animals falling victim to drivers.

“While most incidents of animals being run over are not deliberate, such incidents rarely occur where the driver is unaware of what has happened. At the very least the driver of such a vehicle should report the incident to Monkey Helpline or any other known animal welfare or rescue body. Leaving an animal suffering and dying on the road surface is nothing short of callousness and indifference to the animal’s suffering,” he added.

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