From the day a culling programme was announced for vervet monkeys due to the local population’s uncontrolled growth, persons started objecting. More than 40 animal welfare organisations have now co-signed a letter (see related story) by Animal Advocacy Protection (AAP) asking not to do so.
One reason is that these monkeys – while invasive – were brought to the island by humans. The nuisance they bring when foraging in orchards, gardens and even homes plus their negative impact on native wildlife was enough reason for the Ministry of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport and Telecommunication (TEATT) to approve funds for a euthanising effort by St. Maarten Nature Foundation.
However, sterilisation is a second option mentioned and what the letter now urges instead. Its authors are willing to help organise a catch, neuter and release campaign, which should gradually solve the problem in a less cruel way.
Some may say there appears to be no issue with killing other invasive species including lionfish or giant African snails, but the story changes regarding creatures that mankind feels closer to, like monkeys. For example, roaming dogs aren’t regularly shot on the Dutch side anymore.
Be that as it may, government would do well not to ignore such an array of international organisations, because if they start labelling the country an animal-unfriendly place this could have serious consequences for the tourism destination’s popularity.
Let’s face it, the world is changing and what might have been considered acceptable yesterday no longer is today.
Different times demand new approaches.
