Crow monkey admissions increase twelve-fold over lockdown period
Crow has received an alarming amount of vervet monkey admissions, the highest in the organisation's 40 year history.
IN the short period from March 4 April, the Centre for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife (Crow) has received an alarming amount of vervet monkey admissions, the highest in the organisation’s 40 year history.
In total, 27 monkeys were admitted to the centre in March. Only four survived and 15 died from shootings or complications due to shootings such as broken backs, broken limbs and internal bleeding. According to Crow communications officer, Alex Kogl, in most cases a pellet gun was used.
“Unfortunately, this is part of a growing trend at the centre, where we are admitting dozens more monkeys than ever before. We believe this sharp increase is directly linked to the coronavirus lockdown and the public’s fear of getting infected with Covid-19. Various food outlets have spread false reports that the virus can be transmitted from being around animals, wild or domestic. We would just like to reiterate that there is no evidence that the virus can be spread from being around animals. Please stop harming the monkeys. We’d like to encourage the public to treat all living things, including animals, with respect and tolerance as we go through this challenging time in the country,” she said.
If you spot someone using a pellet gun on a monkey, get in touch with your local SPCA or Crow. A person does not need a licence to own an airgun in South Africa, but the use of an airgun is regulated under the Firearms Control Act. When reporting the use of an airgun in your area to your local police station, Crow advises you take a copy of the Firearms Control Act with you.
“We’d like to remind the public that we are still fully-operational during the lockdown and if they come across an injured, displaced or orphaned wild animal they must bring it through to us or call us on 031-462-1127 to arrange a rescue. Finally, if you would like to help us during these tough financial times we’d greatly appreciate a donation which can be made on our website through www.crowkzn.co.za,” said Alex.
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