Fact-Finding Mission Report on Invasive Africa Green Monkey Management Strategies in St. Kitts and Nevis

From 7th to 11th November, Mr. Ika Fergus, Senior Extension Officer, Mr. Adriel Thibou, Senior Forestry Officer and Mr. Vashawn Jarvis, Forestry Assistant went on a fact-finding mission and training pertaining to the “Africa Green Monkey”. The purpose of this mission was to identify effective measures utilized by the relevant authorities on St. Kitts and Nevis in addressing the monkey crisis with the intention of duplicating some of these strategies used to mitigate the increasing “monkey problems” here on Antigua.

The recent sightings and reports of the Green Vervet monkey (Chlorocebus sabaeus) in various parts of Antigua, particularly in the Southeast Farming District, have raised significant concerns about the potential threat they pose to our agricultural sector and national food safety and security. These primates have been known to cause substantial damage to crops, as observed in neighboring islands such as St Kitts & Nevis and Barbados.

The objectives of the mission were as follows:

1. To conduct an in-depth analysis and evaluation of the control and deterrence strategies implemented by St. Kitts and Nevis in managing the Vervet monkey population.

2. To ascertain the effectiveness, practicality, sustainability, and environmental impact of the aforementioned strategies, assessing their adaptability to the Antiguan context.

3. To undertake a detailed exploration of the varied measures employed in St. Kitts and Nevis, including trapping techniques, population control strategies, and rehabilitative measures.

4. To glean key insights and best practices from these measures, with an emphasis on their potential applicability to the Antiguan scenario.

5. To develop a robust, context-specific, and scientifically informed management plan for the burgeoning Vervet monkey population in Antigua, aimed at curtailing the current population and preventing further expansion.

6. To ensure the devised plan mitigates the potential threat this species could pose to Antigua’s ecological balance and economic stability, particularly in relation to the agricultural sector and national food security.

Besides data collection while in St. Kitts the trio held consultations with the Ministry of Agriculture officials, technicians and other stakeholders, reviewed relevant legislation/regulation and went on site visits. Many recommendations were made to them and these were submitted to the management of the Ministry for consideration and instructions for pending actions to address the Monkey issues in Antigua.