Monkey euthanised after poaching trap rescue
Crow were forced to make the tough decision and euthanise a vervet monkey that was caught in a gin trap.
A VERVET monkey found caught in a gin trap on a Yellowwood Park rooftop had to be euthanised after suffering catastrophic injuries in what is believed to have been a poaching attempt on July 23.
The Centre for Rehabilitation of Wildlife (Crow) responded to a call about a distressed animal on a residential property.
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Clint Halkett-Siddall, director at Crow, said that the monkey’s leg was ensnared in the trap, a device often linked to poaching.
“Despite being rescued and rushed to Crow for urgent veterinary care, the extent of his injuries was devastating. His leg had sustained irreversible damage, and his teeth had been worn down from desperately trying to free himself from the trap,” he said.
Halkett-Siddall said the team had to make the difficult decision to end the suffering of the animal.
Trend of mistreatment
The identity of the person who set the trap remains unknown, but Halkett-Siddall said this incident is part of a concerning trend of wildlife mistreatment.
“Sadly, we do not know who was responsible for setting the trap. What we do know is that this is the seventh case of animal cruelty that Crow has responded to in the past week alone,” said Halkett-Siddall.
Poaching in KZN
While poaching may not be widespread in Yellowwood Park itself, Halkett-Siddall said that it is a significant problem throughout Durban and the wider KZN area.
“The more common method of poaching uses snares and dogs. Most poaching in KZN is mainly for the illegal bushmeat and muti trade,” he said.
Report any crimes
Crow urges residents to be watchful and report any suspected wildlife crimes. “No wild animal should endure such suffering. If you see wildlife being deliberately harmed, trapped, poisoned or abused, please report it immediately to Crow or your local SPCA. Your report could save an animal’s life and help hold those responsible accountable,” said Halkett-Siddall.
To report an animal crime or an animal in distress to Crow, you can call their emergency number at 083 212 5281 or their office at 031 462 1127.
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