Despite the temptation to feed vervet monkeys, it’s crucial to understand the serious consequences. The saying, “A fed monkey is a dead monkey,” underscores the risks of human intervention in wildlife feeding.
Feeding monkeys can have detrimental effects on their health. Many human foods are unsuitable for monkeys, causing digestive issues, malnutrition, and even death.
Additionally, feeding alters their behaviour, leading to aggression in pursuit of food, which can result in injuries to both humans and monkeys.
Monkeys accustomed to human handouts may venture into homes in search of food, causing property damage and conflicts between humans and animals. Moreover, feeding disrupts natural ecosystems and can lead to ecological imbalances.
- Instead of feeding vervet monkeys, consider planting fruit trees like Natal plum, Natal fig, and avocado trees. This supports monkey nutrition without negative consequences.
By refraining from feeding monkeys and promoting responsible behaviour, we ensure the well-being of both monkeys and our community.
Vervet monkeys may visit your property for two primary reasons: it falls within their patrolled territory, and they seek food during their travels. Given that we have encroached on their habitats, it’s advisable to allow them to spend time in your garden and then move on.
However, if vervets become a nuisance, consider these measures:
Remove food from kitchen surfaces near open doors and windows.
Install insect screens or shutters on windows.
Note vervet visitation times and secure doors and windows during these periods.
Close windows and doors when away.
Keep pet food and bird feeders away from open areas.
Dispose of leftovers in compost heaps away from homes.
Apply pet repellents or grease downpipes to deter access to roofs.
Use electric fencing or chicken wire to protect vegetable gardens.
Secure garbage bins with clamped lids or bricks.
Discourage vervets with swinging plastic hoses or water squirts, avoiding slingshots or stones.
Never use pellet guns; shooting monkeys is illegal.
Plant indigenous fruit trees and plants to provide alternative food sources.
Shooting a vervet with a gun or paintball gun constitutes an offense in terms of the Animal Protection Act 71/1962.
