The National Council of SPCAs (NSPCA) confirms that a proposed culling operation targeting vervet monkeys at the Umdoni Retirement Village in Pennington, KwaZulu-Natal will not proceed.
This follows public concern that the planned intervention, being a collaboration between the retirement village and Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, was both unnecessary and inhumane, given that there was no verified severe human–primate conflict at the site.
Upon receiving reports of the intended cull, the NSPCA engaged with Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, the Amanzimtoti SPCA, and representatives of the retirement village. It was confirmed that no mass cull will take place and that any future wildlife management interventions will be handled in accordance with provincial conservation and animal welfare legislation.
“While we understand that vervet monkeys can cause frustration, particularly in residential areas, it is critical to remember that these are highly intelligent, social, and sentient animals,” said Chief Inspector Douglas Wolhuter, Manager of the NSPCA’s Wildlife Protection Unit. “Lethal control should never be the first option, nor the easy one.”
The NSPCA emphasised that animal welfare considerations must form part of any conflict mitigation strategy. This includes:
- Ensuring that ‘monkey-proof’ bins and proper waste disposal systems are in place to prevent attractants;
- The use of humane deterrents and education initiatives to reduce conflict; and
- Consultation with the local SPCA and the NSPCA’s oversight before any action is taken.
“The welfare and conservation of wildlife are inseparable,” Wolhuter added. “A balanced, evidence-based approach protects both people and animals, and helps avoid suffering.”
As South Africa’s national animal welfare authority, the NSPCA continues to advocate for compassionate, science-based wildlife management that upholds the principles of humane coexistence.
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