Editor
IN response to the letter, ‘Shame on you Durban North’ and previous similar letters. I was fortunate enough for most of my childhood to grow up on a farm in amongst game reserves in Northern Zululand. And due to that have a very healthy respect and understanding of wildlife in general.
Therefore I must admit that a letter such as this angers me and makes me wonder as to what the author means by ‘ educated and civilized’. Firstly, I doubt very much that the lady who rode over the monkey did it on purpose. And secondly I commend her for not stopping. And believe it or no, for not swerving !My advise to the so called ‘educated and civilized ‘, do not stop.
You are not equipped to deal with an injured wild animal, which may also be a carrier of rabies – a woman on her own or with kids in the car in this day and age. An educated person should not have to think beyond that. You will end up with a situation you do not understand and have no control over and very possibly, life threatening. And consider this: Do not swerve. Break straight ahead.
Many a ‘bunny hugger’ has written off his/her family for a stray dog or the like. Is it worth it ? My wife and kids, have strict instructions from me as above, and I advise the same to those that know their limits. Wild animals are awesome and we in SA are blessed to have them in such close proximity. But they need a very healthy respect from us as humans. Don’t feed them . Don’t try touch them. You only do them harm if you do. So in short. Leave them alone, if one is injured, call someone who is trained to handle the situation.
Trevor Hulett
Durban North
