With
the expansion of homes and security Estates on the KZN north coast, with it
brings frequent confrontations with Humans and Vervet monkeys. It is important
to remember that we are developing homes in locations previously habited by
troops of monkeys. Finding solutions on co-habitation is better than one taking
matters into their own hands or trying to find ways to relocate the moneys,
here are a few reasons why:
There have been a number of reports
regarding aggressive male monkeys on the estate/s and that residents are afraid
to walk.
This time of year is quite dynamic
in monkey troop activities. There has been a lot of breeding activity with the
result that most of the females are carrying babies and a number of young males
are now doing the teenage thing and looking out for a troop to take over. These
young but fully grown males detach themselves from the troop and operate in
this manner until they can take over a troop or are happy to accept a lower
status.
All over the land there are young male vervets looking to develop alpha-male
status, so relocation is not an option.
MONKEYS WILL NOT ATTACK YOU IF YOU DO NOT THREATEN OR CORNER THEM
So, what to do?
Around your home
- Do not leave any fruit lying around. Keep it in the
fridge or a microwave or other lock up box. The monkeys' sense of smell is
very good and they can detect it from a long way off and will come
looking.
- Keep all doors and windows secure from monkey access.
If monkeys come and cannot smell any food and cannot get into your home
they will move on.
- Do not feed birds as the Monkeys eat the bird seed as
well.
- If monkeys bother you around the house, the best way to
move them on is a water pistol or spray. A water hose also works, as does
flicking at them with an item of clothing or a towel.
Whilst on a walk around the estate
- If you are unhappy with the presence of monkeys, carry
your water pistol of spray gun with you.
- Do not let your dog be at all aggressive to the
monkeys.
- If you are uncomfortable walking with a child in the
presence of monkeys, try and avoid them or walk in areas where there are
less trees.
Article courtesy of Brettenwood
Homeowners Association (a security estate on the beautiful KZN North Coast)