THE Centre for Rehabilitation of Wildlife (Crow) has encouraged the public to report instances of animal poisoning after three vervet monkeys were rescued recently in Illovo Beach and admitted due to poisoning.

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Crow’s Denika Govender said after the monkeys were caught, they were immediately taken to the vet for assessment and poisoning was confirmed.

“All three are currently at our centre under close observation. As far as we are aware, one monkey has sadly passed away in Amanzimtoti,” said Govender.

The dead monkey was found with her unharmed infant clinging to her lifeless body. The orphan was taken to Crow, where she began rehabilitation. In some cases, poisoning is not intentional, and monkeys might get poisoned after eating discarded medication.

“We urge the public to dispose of expired or unused medication responsibly. Vervet monkeys are highly intelligent and curious animals that often scavenge through household refuse. Consuming discarded medication can lead to accidental poisoning and unnecessary suffering. Intentionally poisoning any animal is against the Animal Welfare Act, and intentional capture or killing of indigenous wildlife will be met with hefty fines and or jail time,” she said.

If anyone witnesses or suspects intentional poisoning or cruelty towards animals, they should immediately report it to the SPCA on 031 904 2424. For incidents involving wildlife, reports can also be made to Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife on 033 845 1999.

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