SPCA inspections reveal improvements at Monkey TownMonkey Town has been investigated by the Cape of Good Hope (COGH) SPCA for sometime with numerous warnings and recommendations issued and enforced. This has resulted in significant improvements to the various enclosures thus enriching the lives for these captive animals. Following an exposé on M-Net’s Carte Blanche another unannounced inspection was undertaken by the COGH SPCA Wildlife Unit who report that improvements have been made. The chimps now have an additional area with further environmental enrichment. This area also allows the chimps to be secured in a safe area whilst the rest of enclosure is cleaned – without the use of weed eaters. At the time of inspection there were no signs of stereotypic behavior and the chimps were quite active with their various toys and food. During this inspection there was bedding available in the chimps sleeping quarters. The Monkey Town management is currently liaising with chimp experts to further enrich the lives of the chimps. The Farmyard animals have been sterilised and water containers are available and they have also improved the drainage system. One Hamadrya female has been sterilized and the second female has been separated from the group as she is pregnant. PAAZAB and CapeNature have subsequently undertaken inspections at Monkey Town. The reports from these organisations are still pending. PAAZAB is currently looking for possible homes for the male Hamadryas. Although there have been improvements we’ll strive to undertake pro–active inspections and be extremely vigilant to make sure that this establishment continually strives to keep the animals in more than acceptable conditions. [Posted 12 May 2009]
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