How to live with vervet monkeys – tips and insights at talk

Troubling scenes of animal cruelty, with monkeys being shot dead or maimed are a weekly occurrence in Richards Bay.

To address this, guest speaker Silke von Eynern will give a talk on vervet monkey behaviour and solutions for co-existence on Wednesday, 28 May at 6pm at 44B Pelserplaat, Meerensee.

ALSO READ: WATCH: Outcry after vervet monkey shot in head with pellet gun

Silke is from Bambelela Wildlife Care NPC and Vervet Monkey Rehabilitation Centre, which she has run for 22 years.

The Zululand Observer recently reported on the outcry after a baby vervet monkey was shot in the head with a pellet gun.

Dr Jurgen Otto and wife Miriam were caring for the creature nicknamed Skollie before it sadly died two days after the shooting.

The incident sparked outrage online, with many taking to Arboretum Veterinary Clinic’s Facebook page to condemn the act of cruelty.

“Pellet guns should be banned. People think they are shooting monkeys and there’s no suffering, but they are under a false illusion. It is terribly cruel and wicked!” said Angie Inman.

“No animal should live their lives in fear or torment at the hands of mankind,” said Debra Crochetiere.

“Unfortunately, this is what mankind is becoming – people with pellet guns who shoot and poison poor helpless wildlife,” echoed Jolene MacGregor Davey.

Silke’s talk will explain that there are better ways of co-existing with vervet monkeys.

While the talk is free of charge, donations are welcomed to cover the cost of Silke’s travel to Richards Bay.

Attendees must bring a camp chair.

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