Richards Bay ‘monkey bridge’ proposed to curb road deaths

Monkey fatalities on Richards Bay’s roads have raised serious concern, prompting a call for action from local wildlife warriors.

Wilma Paxton has proposed the installation of netted monkey crossings over high-traffic areas to help reduce the number of vervet monkeys killed or maimed by vehicles.

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The initiative, which originated within the ‘Richards Bay Wildlife Network: Helpers, carers and warriors’ WhatsApp group, has gained traction among more than 100 members who report injured wildlife across the city.
Paxton highlighted the Medway intersection near Meerensee as a hotspot.

“They are killed daily by traffic,” said Paxton. “Most are hit on the John Ross. They watch the traffic, but there are just too many cars.”

Local engineering company Hokmah (Pty) Ltd, led by director Ian Loretz, has offered to design the crossings. Paxton is appealing for corporate sponsorship, suggesting businesses could display their logos on the structures to show support for wildlife protection.

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Having conducted her own study over the years, Miriam Otto, wife of Arboretum Veterinary Clinic’s Dr Jurgen Otto, said troop numbers are declining, having dropped from between 80-100 in 2000 to just 20-30 today.

Local officials and conservation groups have voiced support for the initiative, calling for greener urban planning and humane conflict resolution with wildlife.

To support the project, contact Wilma Paxton on 066 4170156.

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