[WARNING: GRAPHIC PHOTOS] With close on 30 dead, monkey poisonings rife in KZN
"We were totally unprepared for the scene that greeted us when we arrived. Not three but seven dead monkeys and an eighth adult female barely alive, her terrified baby still clinging to her body."
The Monkey Helpline non-profit organisation is devastated at the number of recent monkey poisonings in KZN.
Endless emphasis is placed on not harming the sometimes pesty animals, however, residents continue to use methods of violence and cruelty to terminate their troops.
“We were devastated to be called to a residential property in Escombe, Queensburgh where three monkeys and a hadeda bird were found dead in a garden,” said Monkey Helpline’s Carol Booth.
When the caller said the monkeys had no visible signs of injury on them, Monkey Helpline’s responders immediately suspected poisoning.
“We were totally unprepared for the scene that greeted us when we arrived. Not three but seven dead monkeys and an eighth adult female barely alive, her terrified baby still clinging to her body. The baby escaped and the mother died en route to the vet,” said Carol.
“Definite signs of poisoning were visible and there were undoubtedly more dead and dying monkeys nearby.”
KZN is experiencing a spate of monkey poisonings within the last month, as 14 monkeys died of poisoning in Hibberdene, four monkeys were found dead, most likely poisoned in Hilton, and now eight known deaths in Queensburgh.
“Killing monkeys is an unacceptable and illegal way of dealing with the presence of monkeys and poisoning is both immoral and illegal. The use of poison in this manner is in contravention of laws governing the handling of poisonous substances,” said Monkey Helpline’s Steve Smit.
“Of additional concern is that other animals, including pet dogs and cats, as well as mongoose and birds can eat this poisoned food and die. A case in Pietermaritzburg a few years ago saw the death of a human as an adult man ate a banana left out on a garden table for monkeys, which had been laced with temec.
“We will report this incident to both the SAPS and the Kloof and Highway SPCA for investigation and prosecution of the culprit responsible for this cruelty.” Steve appeals to anyone with any relevant information or even a suspicion, to come forward and speak to the Monkey Helpline, the SAPS or the SPCA inspectors.
“This act has caused huge disruption to the social dynamics of the monkey troop involved, right at the time that mating season is getting underway. It will leave babies orphaned and likely to die, also disrupting the hierarchy of the troop, causing fighting and squabbling that could result in severe injuries and even death,” said Steve.
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