BARBARIC snares and traps set to catch monkeys and other wildlife were discovered in Sea Park last week.
The traps have outraged animal lovers who are deeply concerned at the pain and suffering these can cause.
People have set these devices in order to catch monkeys and other wildlife for food, muti, to sell or just because it is ‘fun’.
Southport resident Amanda de Villiers is very worried about the welfare of animals in the area. She says not only do the traps pose a threat, she also claims to know of several people who shoot monkeys with pellet guns.
“It is just cruel and inexcusable, and people who indulge in this kind of behaviour should be fined, named and shamed. There should be a register for these kind of offenders,” she said.
Amanda keeps an eye on a large troop of monkeys which moves through her property and says she often sees injured animals.
“I’ve seen a badly injured monkey which had been caught in a snare. It was terrible to see how the animal had ripped its whole limb open in order to escape,” she said.
Amanda said some people teach their dogs to chase monkeys and do not understand that they are putting their dogs at risk of injury as wild animals will retaliate if cornered.
“Other people encourage their children to use monkeys for pellet gun ‘target practice’ which may leave the animal with injuries that cause great pain or even paralysis or death.”
Amanda encouraged people to be on the alert for traps when they take their dogs for a walk so their pets don’t get caught in the snares.
The traps are not easily visible and one has to look carefully in order to spot them. “They are set up using sticks and wire in such a way that when the animal puts its head down to forage, the snare gets caught around its neck, limbs or body,” she said.
Amanda urged the public to regularly check their gardens and immediate surroundings for snares and traps. These are especially common at construction sites, road works and new developments where bush is being cleared.
Snares can be removed if it safe to do so. If not, contact the SPCA, Monkey Helpline or KZN Ezemvelo Wildlife for assistance.
Monkey Helpline can be contacted at 082 6594711 or 082 4115444 or visit www.monkeyhelpline.co.za for information and education on how to live in harmony with monkeys.
