Vervet monkey on the loose, community urged to be on the lookout
The monkey was last spotted in Witpoortjie, and Claw appeals for public assistance.
A vervet monkey is currently on the loose and was last spotted in Witpoortjie.
According to animal rescue organisation Community Led Animal Welfare (Claw) owner Cora Bailey, during this time of the year, it is normal for male vervet monkeys to leave the troop when they reach puberty in search of mates.
She said it is most likely to be coming from the Cradle of Humankind side, and she is not sure of how long it has been around.
“We are pleading with community members to get this little monkey to safety.
“Vervet monkeys do not pose much of a threat to humans. The danger for monkeys, though, is real, as they have to contend with traffic, dogs and even people who try to kill them for ‘muthi’ or out of superstition.
“Due to rapid urbanisation, they often end up confused and frightened in a suburban area,” she said.
Community members who spot this monkey can join this WhatsApp group chat: https://chat.whatsapp.com/Kq5OVwZWussFi4Z278Rg2Z.
They can share their observations and sightings with the community.
Posts should include the following:
• date and time
• full address of sighting
• pin drop if possible
• photo or video
