Everything you need to know this monkey breeding season
During the season male monkeys who will be fighting for territory and dominance, may get injured. Residents are urged to report any injured monkeys to the Centre for Rehabilitation of Wildlife(Crow).
ITS breeding season for monkeys, and residents might catch a glimpse of male monkeys who will be fighting for territory and dominance.
Staff at Crow, the Centre for Rehabilitation of Wildlife, based in Yellowwood Park, is encouraging residents to learn more about the behavior of vervet monkeys and contact them should help be needed.
The centre’s operations director, Clint Halkett-Siddall, said many monkeys will sustain injuries during this time, with some being life-threatening due to bites on their backs, arms and tails.
“Most of the time these monkeys can heal on their own. If they are injured and still with their troop, it will be difficult for our team to catch them, but as soon as they are alone Crow’s staff can come out to rescue them,” said Clint.
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For those who are in doubt about what to do, they can snap a photo of the injured monkey and send it via Whatsapp to 083 212 5281, so that Crow’s experts can make a decision as to how they can assist.
Clint added that vervet monkeys do not attack people or pets, they only display defensive aggression towards individuals or animals they see as a threat.
“This defensive mechanism intends to warn off a potential aggressor and is often mistaken as a monkey trying to attack. If there is a monkey in your house, open all windows and doors to create an open space for the monkey to escape. Do not confront a monkey or force it to leave as it will make them anxious and defensive.
ALSO READ: Understanding the behaviour of vervet monkeys
“Use chicken mesh or insect-proof screens in front of your windows, gates or burglar guards to prevent monkeys from coming inside your house. Using nylon bird netting over your vegetables or garden produce is a good way to keep monkeys from pinching your food,” he said.
On a monthly basis, Crow provides charcoal to the vervet monkeys in their care. Charcoal helps to detoxify and absorbs excess gas in the intestines and can relieve an upset stomach, indigestion, smelly gas, diarrhoea, and bad breath.
To donate towards the injured wildlife animals or for more information, call 031 462 1127 or 083 212 5281 (after hours).
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