Monkey Foster Mom Program Explained - Animal Rescue Q&A - Vervet Forest

Vervet Forest - At the Vervet Monkey Foundation, a wildlife conservation & animal rescue sanctuary Kyle takes a deep dive into the monkey foster mom program and answers many of the most frequently asked questions regarding the program, the monkeys, the decisions and the methods. Time's for specific questions are below.
00:40 - What is the Foster Mom Program?
04:34 - Why wait for the babies to be 3 months old?
05:26 - How do you choose a foster troop?
07:16 - How do we decide which moms get which babies?
10:46 - How many babies does a female foster?
13:47 - What if a baby doesn't bond with a mom?
16:07 - Do babies stay with their foster moms in the troop?
21:20 - What food do the babies eat?
Become a member - / @vervetmonkey
Donate to help the monkeys - donate.vervet.za.org
Volunteer at the VMF - vervet.za.org/volunteering
Buy T-shirts - teespring.com/stores/the-vmf
Support this show - / vervetforest
Please remember to like, subscribe and share this video with your friends. :)
The Vervet Forest is a wildlife rehab series focused on Vervet Monkeys at the Vervet Monkey Foundation . The series showcases the process of taking orphaned and injured vervet monkeys through a foster mother program which helps these rescued orphan baby monkeys to be adopted by foster mother monkeys. The show is for fans of animal planet, nat geo, discovery and anyone who is an animal lover, loves animals and would like to be part of helping them get back to the wild.
Instagram for photos and videos of the babies, updated daily - @Vervet_Forest
To learn more about the Vervet Forest wildlife reserve project visit - vervet.za.org/the-vervet-forest/
Official Facebook of the Vervet Monkey Foundation - Facebook.com/groups/vervet/
Official Facebook of the Vervet Forest - Facebook.com/VervetForest
#BabyMonkey #VervetMonkeyFoundation #Vervetforest #orphan #vervetmonkey #VMF #VervetLove #MonkeySanctuary #MonkeyForest #monkeyart #monkeymagic #monkeyemoji #monkeylover #monkeymischief
#monkeymonday #monkeylove #monkeys #monkeyforest #primatesanctuary #primaterescue #primate #primates #vervettalk #SaveThePrimates #monkeylove #PrimatesAreNotPets #PrimateRescueCenter #PrimateRescue #monkeytalk #primate #primates
#vervettalk
Music By: www.viktorhurskainen.com/
The Gear Used to Create the Show and Links to Purchase...
Sony Fs700 - amzn.to/2LdLNM2
Canon 7dmk2 - amzn.to/2J1aP49
Canon 24-70mm Lense - amzn.to/2JlvvmL
Canon 100-400mm Lense - amzn.to/2svFuf2
Benro S8 Tripod - amzn.to/2JlEvIE
Feisol Mini Tripod - amzn.to/2Ha93bn
Tascam DR-10L Microphone - amzn.to/2J5xw33
Memory Cards - amzn.to/2LQG4Ne
Light Stand - amzn.to/2HcEYrt
Light for Filming Babies - amzn.to/2LO7Rh6
Interview Light 1 - amzn.to/2JlwDXx
Interview Light 2 - amzn.to/2LcvY87
Drone DJI Mavic Pro - amzn.to/2sotYmx
Suggested Reading To Learn About Monkeys, Animal Behavior and A Plant Based Diet...
Nicko, the tale of a vervet monkey on an African farm - amzn.to/2J9RgTr
Facts About The Vervet Monkey (A Picture Book For Kids - amzn.to/2HaMxik
How Monkeys See the World - amzn.to/2kHr3Ry
Second Nature: The Inner Lives of Animals - amzn.to/2J7VURQ
Beyond Words: What Animals Think and Feel - amzn.to/2JlyA6j
The Emotional Lives of Animals: A Leading Scientist Explores Animal Joy, Sorrow, and Empathy ― and Why They Matter - amzn.to/2xvAxIE
The Rise of Conservation in South Africa: Settlers, Livestock, and the Environment 1770-1950 - amzn.to/2xEPk4a
The Omnivore's Dilemma: A Natural History of Four Meals - amzn.to/2Hac63a
The Forks Over Knives Plan: How to Transition to the Life-Saving, Whole-Food, Plant-Based Diet - amzn.to/2Lcl2r7
Cowspiracy: The Sustainability Secret - amzn.to/2LdxAP6
Recommended Vegan Documentaries...
Food Matters - amzn.to/2LOGR1b
What The Health - amzn.to/2LO5L0Y
Forks Over Knives - amzn.to/2LeD63M
Cowspiracy - amzn.to/2LOoHfX
Food Inc. - amzn.to/2Jnu3QS
Vegucated - amzn.to/2swe9Jy
*These animals are not pets they are rescued wildlife undergoing a rehabilitation program at the Vervet Monkey Foundation in South Africa*

[@tonyalogan5095]

Another awesome Q&A. Thank you as it answered so many questions I have had. Love the Vervet Forest

[@hamidabbassi727]

09365064264

[@hamidabbassi727]

Hamidrezaabbassi

[@hamidabbassi727]

09365064264

[@deborahkimball-billups6405]

Ditto

[@mavourneenkahikina2985]

@@deborahkimball-billups6405 ⁰pppĺppp

[@jhholliday4966]

I have to admit that I needed this video today. My SO's health has taken a bad turn making for many sleepless nights... I jumped at the chance to see the new Q&A... I awoke several hours later still listening to older videos...woke up to Vera getting hugs. I immediately had to watch Q&A over...best rest I've had in a week...I mean that in the best of way possible...thanks!

[@VervetMonkey]

Awesome! Glad to hear it, thank you and you're welcome :D

[@heartofearthcrystals]

I love how you know each monkey personally and their personalities. It’s so clear the massive amount of love that you all have for them and it’s really so beautiful! I’m so glad I found this channel! Been binging for days! ✨💕

[@beats2476]

Your love of these primates is so contagious. The way you describe their actions with your beautiful smile show's your devotion. Sending hugs from North Carolina.

[@quietinspirationcreations3448]

*FYI - Kyle is a volunteer with the Vervet Monkey Foundation, not a paid employee!* Anyone wishing to help support him, and the work he puts into bringing us these videos, while spreading the word about the Vervet Monkey Foundation, can sponsor him on Patreon. You can start/stop your sponsorship anytime, and enjoy exclusive perks, for as little as $1USD per month! To see how you can become a Patron, visit www.patreon.com/vervet_forest *Let's show him how much we appreciate his work, and help him continue keeping us entertained, week after week!*

[@carolcosta9519]

Very informative.Many thanks to all the volunteers!

[@teach4him2]

Kyle, this was SO nice, because it really clarifies so many things about the foster moms! Thanks so much!!

[@user-fe4sh2ww9c]

I must thank you for taking care of these precious monkeys and babies, I fully support your organization God bless you all

[@wanroy88]

Well done! I wish Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Indonesia & Malaysia would follow your programme in their own countries. There are many monkey abusements in these countries & the government is not punishing these vendors

[@jimrossi7708]

Miss having Kyle around, but Dave is doing a awesome job as well as several of the others, wish I could name them all, keep up the fantastic job guys, love from the good ‘ol USA 🇺🇸 !!!

[@stacyhoefflin]

I love your way of rehabing the babys Instead of trying to take it and raise it with only humans is not natural

[@cburke5023]

Thank you for being a blessing to all of the babies, moms. Your the only one that takes care, love, and finding the best of mom to help these little Angels babies feel safe, and have love. THEY ARE BLESSED FOR HAVING YOU, AND EVERYONE THAT LOVE, AND GIVES THEM ALL A LIFE. MANY BLESSING FOR YOU ALL.

[@dolorescardenas3853]

Thank you for explaining the program. I have learned a lot about this monkeys from your videos. Everyone from staff to volunteers do an awesome job. I can see the dedication every one has to their care.

[@805Bird]

Thanks for all the information. You guys are doing amazing work!!!

[@sandrarawn2147]

Hi Kyle! 🙋♥️🇨🇦 Thank you so much for doing this video! You answered alot of questions I had. God bless all of you 🙏 volunteers, Dave and staff for a wonderful job saving these darling little monkeys!

[@mystismith5815]

*Greetings, fellow viewers! PLEASE allow ads to play through! The small amount of revenue from ads makes a BIG difference! If you have an ad blocker, (or if you don't), you can help in other ways: Did you know that you can become a patreon for $1 per month? That's 25c a week! (Of course you can pledge more, if you wish.) Every cent really does count! If you can spare a few coins (or notes), please consider donating to VMF. If you can spare the time, please consider volunteering! You truly CAN make a difference!* 👍❤️😃🐒😍 *Peace, Love and Bananas to all!* Edit: *I almost forgot, you can also donate! (Different format to patreon.) And you can get hold of some pretty awesome gear in the gift shop. Kyle has posted the links in the video descriptions, and on the VMF page.* *Peace, Love and Bananas to all!* 👍❤️😃🐒😍

[@63Malda]

Very well done with clear explanations. Also a good selection of links for further information. Thank you.

[@ALadyD704]

Thank you for the wonderful information. I enjoyed watching all of the video that you had set up as demonstrations of what you were talking about.

[@KRWdstck]

Thank you Kyle and all the volunteers who take care of these precious babies!

[@donaldsheeley9606]

This program puts the other Monkey sites to literal shame. Here from top to bottom the animals are cared for with the aim of giving all a new chance in life . This is done by focusing on the needs including the Troupes. Kudos to all those giving their time and effort.

[@juliet5383]

Great info and thank you so much. Love the T-shirt and other merc. Definitely going ro order T-shirt and bag for now. Thank you all at the foundation for loving the monkeys with a sincere passion.❤️🐵❤️

[@omgitsshatner8197]

I really loved this video.. I just watched it again. Thank you so much for making such great content.

[@missmurrydesign7115]

Merci, fascinating, Kyle! What motivates the foster mother to be foster mothers? Thank you and bless all of you and yours at the foundation...

[@GrandmaLM]

Glad I found this. Lots of great info. I’ve been watching your channel for a few weeks now. You all are great. An excellent foundation.

[@VervetMonkey]

Awesome! Thank you!

[@kellydouglas3761]

I am so blessed to finally see you guys on my news feed I couldn't remember the name on my KZbin account for this channel and unfortunately in searching I found a lot of monkey related videos I did not want to see and I can't unsee but thank you thank you thank you you guys are a blessing thank you for doing all that you can

[@terriegamino4415]

Make a list and check it twice! Great presentation and answers MANY questions! I appreciate all the work/effort/creativity that you and others invest for our education. Hugs all around!

[@beckyf2024]

Thank you for all you do for these precious monkeys and for all you are teaching us! It's just fascinating, they are so much fun to watch and learn about!!

[@fernanton8370]

Thank you for this video. You answered my questions. I love the monkeys . Great job that you & your fellow helpers are doing . 🥰🥰

[@emutak1218]

Thank you Kyle!

[@katyalupochev9589]

I’d love a video(if you would feel comfortable sharing) with a little bit of backstory for you. How did you get into wildlife rescue? What brought an American boy to South Africa? Any advice for those hoping to work/volunteer in rescue too? In your opinion, does mustard belong in mac’n’cheese?(hint: the answer is yes). Hope your day is calm and your work is easy my man. ✌🏼

[@VervetMonkey]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/rpyQZ2SLodacgNU - this should answer some of those questions. There are others as well, direct links are in the description below the video :)

[@jill-of-all-trades]

🙄

[@shellyolson4641]

Thank you for all your wonderful care!

[@testingherwings]

Great to know these lil monkeys are rescued and grow up to have a healthy monkey life. Bless you All.

[@lorrainehill-stevens6968]

Thank you!! Very informative!

[@leekinesis9654]

I always find the ranking system in primates quite interesting.just how it works and gets passed onto babies even the adopted ones.

[@virtualworldvixen]

Hey Kyle! Idk who names the babies but you should do a baby naming drawing or context next season! Like whoever donates or buys merch or becomes a patron for example gets their name in a drawing to name a baby! I would so be game for a chance to name a baby! ❤️

[@VervetMonkey]

So all you gotta do to stay up on being able to name a baby is to follow us on insta @Vervet_Forest All baby season I do little contests where you can donate $1 or $5 per entry and you can enter as many times as you want. Also all babies are named by anyone who wants to, usually the waiting list fills up fast so if you want to get on now just email [e-mail] and let them know you'd like to be put on the list for this next season.

[@lainyfromrainypnw]

When they groom each other...WHAT are they going after then eating??? Loved your ending...sweaty palm to the face...I really got a good giggle out of that. Like when I’m working in the garden & 95% of the time I don’t wear gloves & my nose will start itching, etc., & when I go to wash up, I’ve got all these dirt smears ALL OVER MY FACE! Not laughing at you but with you!

[@VervetMonkey]

LOL, exactly. They're eating ticks and bugs and pieces of food or grass seeds or scabs or anything really lol.

[@RobinandCarlJackson]

Ohmygosh…I would love to visit!!! Bucket list for sure!!!!

[@cburke5023]

Tell the farmers you get food from, how greatful we all are for there fruits and vegetables that help Gods creations live.

[@Mswildandwacky]

ABSOLUTLEY PRECIOUS !!!

[@lcorkum65]

Great informative video!

[@ksealskimmer]

I watch the videos on my TV and like them, come here to my phone to leave comment....absolutely love these videos..4th time watching thank you

[@VervetMonkey]

Wow, thank you!

[@kellydouglas3761]

That is so awesome you guys are a complete godsend

[@themiccrazy]

Great informative vlog! Thanks for it.

[@lynnbuonomo7611]

That was fantastic!!! Thank you for spending your time!!love light to you Kyle💕

[@jerrieschulz2034]

Foster moms rock!

[@minniechafin7936]

All of you are Amazing...❤💯 Thank you, for Loving them. Wish I Could Be there helping.

[@MegaMindyLou]

Answering all these questions just make me wanna ask so many more. Thanks for taking the time for us. Here’s one for your pt 2 questions answered, how do you keep the foster moms from making their own babies?

[@VervetMonkey]

All the males are vasectomized at 2.5 years of age. Bam! How bout them easy apples?

[@MegaMindyLou]

Vervet Monkey Foundation Awww, their poor little apples. 😂

[@VervetMonkey]

@@MegaMindyLou Wellllll not really. lol. Vasectomy is not castration 😉. Because their genitalia is so important to their social life it would be cruel and wrong to remove them so they simply get a vasectomy and are non the wiser.

[@MegaMindyLou]

Vervet Monkey Foundation Wish we could do that for our dogs. The vet just laughs at you when you ask.

[@VervetMonkey]

@@MegaMindyLou Yeah would probably be way more expensive too. Fortunately it doesn't effect the livelihood of the dogs (unless of course something goes wrong with the procedure). But for the male monkeys the vibrancy of the blue hue in their balls is actually an indicator of rank and sexual prowess within the troop. So when we get ex-pets in who have been castrated it becomes almost impossible to integrate them into a troop because they struggle to find where they stand in their social hierarchy.

[@kich6172]

I am totally OK if you include that picture of Gabe in every video going forward. 😂

[@helenelabarre5627]

Superb, informative video Kyle, thank you! One extra question though, you mention that once the males reach 5yrs they leave the troop, but if they're in enclosures, how can they? And when you talk about female dominance within a troop being in part linked to numbers within family groups, does that mean females who adopt lots of babies (and manage to keep them) have a good chance of increasing their ranking within the troop? And if that's true, as female babies will stay with the troop, unlike the males, are Foster Mom's more likely to Foster female babies than male? Errrr...exccpt if they're called Vera ;) And I promised it started as one extra question, but I got carried away lol!

[@gsusan11]

Helene Labarre - I have some of the same questions that you have! Where do the male monkeys go after they reached that five-year mark? Within a particular enclosure are there multiple troops of monkeys? This was a great video Kyle! Thank you so much for all of the information that you provided. Unfortunately with all that information it created a few new questions! You know us viewers, inquiring minds want to know!😉❤️

[@VervetMonkey]

Yes, the females who have most babies whether adopted or natural have a better chance of maintaining their family groups ranking, so in some ways a baby in a troop with few babies is like a status symbol and that's why everyone wants them. The males don't leave the troops here are the sanctuary, they just do their usual shift for dominance each season and when they lose they back down and when they win they take power, unfortunately I have not observed enough wild troops for a prolonged period of time to say if there are behavioral differences due to the captivity, but I will say that through observation of the wild bandit troop on site over the past two years I've seen most of the males that are established remain in the troop and just fight for their place each year. Sometimes a new roaming male will arrive and cause issues getting ladies pregnant but otherwise its not so dramatic as this constant dance of blue balls coming and going, its more like here's the dudes a they're here to stay but they're gonna keep fighting each other for dominance. I guess the biggest difference is that the young males coming up have to challenge the older males in their troop rather than finding another troop to challenge, but I don't know if that affects them psychologically or physically in any way, the main reason for the migration of males is simply evolution's way of preventing inbreeding. I think it should also be noted that just because they shift troops at 5 years of age does not mean they are constantly searching for new troops every year, generally a male will find his new troop, fight for dominance in it and then attempt to remain in that troop as long as possible, unless they are forced out completely (which is rare) or they get sick and can't keep up. Nah I don't think the moms think about if the babies are male or female especially if they are being given the babies you know? It's not like if they get two male babies they are like, "uuuuhhhh no thanks, we are waiting for female babies, thank you very much." and then they go back to drinking tea and smoking cigars. Cigars cause female vervets are tough as nails.

[@helenelabarre5627]

Thanks for that info Kyle. Much appreciated; Now for your next informative video and a new series of questions. You and all the VMF team are GREAT!! Thank you.

[@TheIrishfitter]

Kyle , you’re the best bro.

[@user-yc7ny5gx9j]

Thanks for your love for them❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤😅

[@jacobwalker4163]

Wow. !!! Ok now that was quite a breakdown. You are very knowledgeable at what you do. These monkeys are very lucky to have you guys.

[@name.terrie]

Thanks for this info!!!

[@yukey2587]

A totally sideways question regarding S. Africa. There has been reports of unrest and security can be an issue. Are you guys in a safe location? What do you do/say to volunteers to keep them from wandering into trouble? Touchy subject, just want to know you can people are safe.

[@VervetMonkey]

Eh, if you listen to what the news has to say then everywhere in the world is terrifying and dangerous. You could walk down the street in LA and get mugged just as easy as you could walk down the street in South Africa and get mugged. There are always cities that are more dangerous than others, like Detroit or Johannesburg. It's always just a matter of keeping your wits about you no matter where you are. Ya know what I mean? You just gotta be smart and you'll be fine.

[@felizshaw192]

Awesome info you no alot about these animals very informative

[@raijoel3990]

Suckling bottle tip (nuzzle) looks bigger if possible make smaller size (little bit smaller and longer )so that baby can drink milk more easily. You can see in the Japanese hospital videos how they feed baby monkeys from bottle with small, longer and very flexible nuzzles.

[@VervetMonkey]

Rai Joel don’t worry, the vmf has been doing this for 25 years, they know what they’re doing. Everything is fine, but thanks for your concern. ☺️

[@sarahdara1982]

Super informative, thank you. I just stumbled upon this channel, and it’s so refreshing to see monkeys treated with the respect they deserve. The bar is so low on KZbin that anything other than pretty blatant torment is widely considered acceptable care, but humanizing these other primates is so incredibly harmful. It’s just a less obvious but equally insidious form of abuse, socially crippling them for life. Just this video has made me want to donate. Thanks for what you do.

[@brookemartin6101]

Kyle, Thanks So Much for This Video, 🙏it seemed to cover EVERYTHING I didn't even realize I wondered about,🤔 it was SO informative I THOROUGHLY enjoyed it. I burst out laughing😄 watching the monkey 🐒hopping after the grasshopper!. 🦗💖

[@susanneanna2421]

Great Q & A !

[@hazeleyes1951]

I really enjoyed this I really learned something!

[@123456BRye]

7:20 with exception to blind babies :). I love the information videos personally. but, people will continue to ask redundant questions, it won't stop despite this video. as some people can't be bothered to go and watch a video to get an answer as they are lazy and disrespectful.. However, it is really great that you have these informative videos, unlike other primate videographers. I do have a question for you. How can I get a copy of your documentary? can I purchase a dvd?

[@lisetta5052]

People showing interest by asking questions isn’t being lazy or disrespectful. You want people to be interested and want to know more as that’s what gets people to support charities and conservation. Be part of the solution and kindly help answer questions that you come upon, or let people know these videos exist. Don’t just assume people are lazy because honestly that’s pretty disrespectful and goes against what you want people to take away from watching these videos. People should want to know more. If the man making this video never asked questions he wouldn’t know what he knows or be there helping them today, so don’t put off people who may be the ones who help in the future.

[@KellynPace]

Loved every minute, you made me laugh and everything was explained greatly.

[@rockdocandlittlebird5974]

You're such a hoot!

[@aprilmartinez656]

Was wondering if the different troups still breed normally and also when makes are old enough to go find another troup do they move to another of your troups or how you deal with those two situations?

[@lisetta5052]

Have you ever found out the answer to these questions? This is what I’ve been wondering too. I’d imagine the mothers wouldn’t want to foster if they were having their own babies, and if the females are breeding naturally, that would grow the population of the troop quickly and there would be more monkeys to feed and support. I’m guessing they use some form of birth control but I’d be curious to know how they deal with that.

[@MakeupMobster]

I wish I could volunteer here

[@janieb1439]

I am so happy to discover your channel! I am used to follow (KZbin) some Vietnamian families who have a baby monkey and I am very shocked, many times, by the disastrous behavior that some humans have towards babies monkeys. (not all of them but too many). I have many questions but first, is possible to report when I see poor helpless babies monkeys abused or neglected or badly treated? For example à very small and so skinny baby who got only fruits, when he was maybe one month old. I wrote many times to the owner, asking him to give special formula milk, but the result is not very good. He always says that he takes care of the baby. Always the same answer. After 3 weeks he started to give a little bit milk sometimes, but I don't know what kind of milk is it. And anyway it's not enough. (first he gave it with a spoon!! The baby got mad, and this man seems to understand nothing. He pretends to help him to become autonomous!) = (no help for eating, no physical contact = getting autonomous!!!!) About one month old monkey!!!! And very weak because of the big lack of proteins. And also no physical contact, no hugs, the baby has no-one to cling on. He was often curled up on himself and let himself be moved like an object. Now he is a little bit older, and he seems to be a little bit better, but the problem is still about the same. (if mistakes, sorry, I am French 😊).

[@jhholliday4966]

Okay...normally don't have questions...but; the new 'in thing' is having 2 ads at beginning of a video... If it is 15 seconds each I watch both. If they are 30 seconds each...does that count as 2 ads for VMF? Usually, one is 30 seconds & the other is much longer... I have been watching both with 2nd only 30 seconds in...what to do...what to do? My more serious question pertaining to the Vervets themselves, the males. In the wild they go out to new troops so can or do the adult males get transferred to different troops at times? I can see this happening with the Camelot troop getting some adult males (if the space opens) to make room for the troops that are good in the foster program...just would like to know...just now getting interested in the male roles with the Season 1 babies getting older. I am listening to this, again, while asking...Vera was sat on by Acorn... I wouldn't bond well either after that... I agree with you that Acorn needs some parenting classes...the old 'Spock Infant Book's may help... Yawl have a great one... I haven't been able to wake up early enough to catch the live feed...but love your techniques on the computer and the 😎 cool way you interact with the people closer to your timeline... just drop the answers in anytime you do a video...I will hear them...(you didn't look at the incredible supporter's list like poor thrush ridden Vera did 😆)...thanks

[@VervetMonkey]

LG Smith lol to the supporter list Vera comment. Unfortunately I don’t have a clue about the adverts I’d have to do some digging on google. As for the males being changed into different troops that’s not something we do. If ya scroll around I know I answered that same question in this comment thread with a pretty long detailed answer, you should be able to find it. It should be one of the more recent replies I made. I’m on my phone now and it’s tough to find and copy and paste so my apologies.✌️

[@easttnlawncare6740]

24/7 care is what you're saying basically they need that more than anything but they

[@owaissaaltheadickey9341]

Thank you for this extremely educational video. Your Vervet Foundation is one of the " monkey videos" that I have stuck with because you truelly take care of the animals and treat them with the respect someone should have when dealing with wild animals ( even though they are babies).I've seen so many baby monkeys that have to deal with narcotic thumbs and depression because of lack of consistency,closeness. Can foster mom's keep/ care for more than one baby at a time ? You may have said already and I missed your answer, if so I'm sorry. How do I go about sponsoring a monkey? Are there some that are in more need than others? Like Seniors,disabled monkeys, monkeys of other species other than Vervet? How can I help out?I wish that I could move to South Africa to be able to help monkeys and other animals in person but I can't because I have terminal cancer. I love how you are so kind with the animals. I wanted to be a veterinarian with my own pet monkey,horse and unicorn as a very young girl but I was always too poor to buy horses,monkeys/primates and was never clever enough for catching unicorns nor veterinary science (seeing hurt animals always made me very sad).It was the same way with seeing/ knowing of creatures living their lives in cages or chained/tied up. My parents were raised by people that believed that you only harmed an animal if you intended on eating it ( they even blessed the 'spirit self's of fish/chicken,etc. as well as that of plants)and my brothers as well as myself was taught the same way. A "sports trophy" is a most horrendous thing because an animal (maybe several animals it the animal is female and either had young or were pregnant) looses it's life. If the hunters would feed starving people,at least that would be something and the poor animal wouldn't die solely for hooves,horns/antlers/racks,tusks, heads/paws or whatever. 🐾 I am sorry if I sound like I hate people that shoot guns. I don't hate people who have and uses their guns(and any other weapons/tools responsibly and respectfully).

[@knunes0410]

What does he mean by enclosure? Are all the monkeys in a big huge cage or does he mean their “group”? Stupid question but new to learning about vervet monkeys

[@virtualworldvixen]

Kerri Nunes not a big cage, individual enclosures by troop

[@VervetMonkey]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/oIXadGuim5l8qbM If you skip ahead to about 5:20 I answer all those questions.

[@misskimpegues]

That was my question do the babies an males make friends thank you .. for answering my question...

[@Marinemom75]

Do you guys grow any of the food there. It would help keep cost down if you could grow some of the local food and maybe some of the not so local food. I'm sure you guys do but I'm curious?? If you need a Gardner I could just fly on over and help!!😜

[@lisahopkins2918]

Are the monkeys fixed? Are the moms unable to have babies?? When or at what age are they fixed if that's what happens to them. Love your work and your videos..

[@VervetMonkey]

All males are vasectomized at 2.5 years of age.

[@lisahopkins2918]

@@VervetMonkey thank you for answering my q&a

[@elisabethhauss2726]

I Show Today and i Show a monkeygarden with a good and Quiet Care. Great.🌷🍀

[@lb3426]

Do you rotate the males around the troops as they would in the wild naturally? I understand they do this so at some point there is not inbreeding. Great video again Kyle!!!

[@VervetMonkey]

Well there is no concern of inbreeding within the troops because they are all vasectomized. The males don't leave the troops here are the sanctuary, they just do their usual shift for dominance each season and when they lose they back down and when they win they take power, unfortunately I have not observed enough wild troops for a prolonged period of time to say if there are behavioral differences due to the captivity, but I will say that through observation of the wild bandit troop on site over the past two years I've seen most of the males that are established remain in the troop and just fight for their place each year. Sometimes a new roaming male will arrive and cause issues getting ladies pregnant but otherwise its not so dramatic as this constant dance of blue balls coming and going, its more like here's the dudes a they're here to stay but they're gonna keep fighting each other for dominance. I guess the biggest difference is that the young males coming up have to challenge the older males in their troop rather than finding another troop to challenge, but I don't know if that affects them psychologically or physically in any way, the main reason for the migration of males is simply evolution's way of preventing inbreeding. I think it should also be noted that just because they shift troops at 5 years of age does not mean they are constantly searching for new troops every year, generally a male will find his new troop, fight for dominance in it and then attempt to remain in that troop as long as possible, unless they are forced out completely (which is rare) or they get sick and can't keep up.

[@VervetMonkey]

Also it should be noted that it's impossible to simply "rotate" a monkey to another troop. You have to consider the troop hierarchy and that it takes months for a monkey to integrate into the the troop. This can be true in the wild as well. It would be more detrimental to the monkey and an insane unfathomable and unreasonable amount of work for staff to try to make this work, because you'd have to spend months on one monkey just slowly integrating them, but also they would be making their own choices in the wild of where they want to go and it depends on how they fair within a troop so you cant just say hey monkey go join this troop they will always make their own decisions. And if a troop doesn't accept a new male and he keeps getting beat up, well then what? We'd have to start over on a whole new troop? What if he doesn't fit in to any new troops? Then we'd have to bring him back to his original troop? But then he'd have lost his standing there and would have to go through the integration process all over again. It just doesn't make sense unfortunately.

[@lb3426]

@@VervetMonkey totally makes sense... I was just curious if they somehow get "antsy" knowing that their instinct is to possibly roam after a period of time... but as you mention, they are vasectomized so there is no inbreeding that occurs. I have been doing way to much research on these guys, hence the question! Thanks for the detailed reply!

[@VervetMonkey]

Lana Bru lol the question of antsy is one you’d have to ask them. But I’ll tell you this: they’re always antsy from the day they’re born.

[@lb3426]

Touché! I watched "Street Monkeys" 5 part series (Wild Things) that followed 3 troops dealing with human development and their battle to keep the territories from competitor troops and unkind humans...learnt a ton about male and female adult troop life so was kinda curious how it worked for the VMF. Thanks again for all you do!

[@MrTaylorscorner25]

Kyle Do the females have there own babies each year or do yall neuter the females when they come in ,,,just wondering cause I dont recall ever seeing a such video with any given female with a newborn

[@judysoderlund7680]

What makes the females want a foster baby? Also, who names the babies?

[@Bill23799]

Thanks Kyle, you answered many of the questions I have had. But hey, what about this...... ( hehe ) I was wondering if this concept of fostering an orphaned baby from outside the troop happens much in a natural Vervet Troop environment. Is this more of a behavior you have taught to the troops you have in your enclosures? Is it driven by instinct for females who have not had babies to want to have something to mother? Do you sterilize some of your troop to reduce the chance of over population with babies born within the troop?

[@jhholliday4966]

The males are sterilized as they reach sexual maturity. I picked up on this when rewatching some old episodes... The other thought about maybe a female that has lost a baby could/would pick up an orphaned baby is interesting...but I only think it would work in that kind of situation...due to the babies needing milk...I had wondered that myself...

[@VervetMonkey]

All males are Vasectomized at 2.5 years of age. I don't know in regards to your first question, I think that would take quite a few years of field research with a multitude of troops being studied and it would require rare situations to be presented. But based on the current belief system that the females who did not give birth are not lactating then the baby in the wild would have no chance of surviving if adopted by a female who could not produce milk to feed it. I think the desire to have a baby is strong among female Vervets, as you can see in their interest in adopting. But I also think that for us this is helped by the fact that the females are not giving natural birth. For in a wild troop if the females were having their own babies they wouldn't care to adopt. Perhaps if a female didn't have a natural birth and then another baby showed up she might, but there is also the issue that a baby from outside the troop wouldn't be accepted by the males unless a female was protecting it as I talked about in this video. The answer is I don't know because I don't have any scientific data to back it up. But I would personally say - I don't think it happens, if it does its super super rare and its a very unique situation and if it does its most likely a baby from within the troop rather than from a different troop, cause also, if it were common place I doubt we would receive so many orphans because the moms would just be picking them up and helping them.

[@ATXInv]

What I wouldn't give to be 20 years younger and volunteer. Ok maybe 30 years.

[@chrisschinella1152]

How is it that there are no pregnancies among the Vervet monkeys in troops? Are the males and females fixed and if so, when is that done?

[@susandanforth7678]

Do you re-name the little ones when you rescue them or when they are given up, or do they retain their name they had???

[@VervetMonkey]

People pay to rename them, which helps cover the initial medical cost and micro chip

[@sisterpamop]

When do foster moms have their biological babies?

[@VervetMonkey]

When they find an unvasectomised male

[@hikkchik]

I just found this channel, and am probably too late to get a question answered, but here goes... I've been watching videos about macaques and how they are abused and abandoned by people using them to make money on KZbin. I've seen so many abandoned macaques attacked by the entire troop when their owners abandon them, even the babies. I've never seen a female adopt a baby. What makes these monkeys so different?

[@VervetMonkey]

all monkeys are teritorial and will attack an foreign monkey coming into there area, its not the monkeys that are diffrent but how its being done

[@hikkchik]

@@VervetMonkey What you're doing is amazing. I'm working my way through the seasons and I wish there was a place like yours for the temple macaques. There are channels where the owners set dogs to attack the baby monkeys or bury them in dirt, and it was a joy to find your channel where they are loved and treated with respect and not used as moneymakers. As we say around here, you're good people. 🙂

[@easttnlawncare6740]

I have always wanted a baby monkey it's a Capuchin

[@VervetMonkey]

there is no such thing as a baby monkey, they only last 6 months

[@drhandle4498]

Stress eating - turns out I'm a monkey. Who knew? Do the females have their own babies? How do you control the population size? I'm thinking you must do something, otherwise a supported population (being fed), plus incoming orphans/rescues, means you would have an ever-increasing (at an ever-increasing rate) of monkeys, and short of giving them typewriters to write more Shakespeare, an ever-increasing population would create a huge problem for a volunteer-run organisation surviving on donations.

[@VervetMonkey]

All males are vasectomized at 2.5 years of age.

[@sandrarawn2147]

🙋🇨🇦🐵🐰 hi Kyle, can u tell .e plz how often can the adoptive mom's adopt a baby in a year?

[@VervetMonkey]

Kyle has gone home to the US - Vervets only have a baby anytime from October till January so they would only really look after one but some have looked after 2 or 3 at the same time

[@sandrarawn2147]

@@VervetMonkey 🙋🇨🇦🐰🐇🐵 thank you so much for your reply! As always when I have a question, you's always give me answers! I'm so hooked watching your channel. I love what everyone does to keep these monkeys safe. Thank you so much, to all of you for the amazing videos! I so hope and pray that everyone there is safe 🙏

[@beats2476]

How can you remember all their names? Also, why would a troupe attack a baby?

[@kurumais]

what do you do with 5 year old males?

[@VervetMonkey]

They same that we do with any monkey older than 3 months, they are slowly be introduced to a troop

[@debbiewhite9162]

Are the babies sterilized? Before let into a troop. Any breeding within the troops? Where do the males go once they reach 5 y/o to meet females if they are in an enclosure?

[@deborahkimball-billups6405]

Where do I send blankets for babies ?

[@VervetMonkey]

Plot 35 California, Tarentaalrand, Letsitele, Limpopo Province South Africa

[@deborahkimball-billups6405]

@@VervetMonkey thank you . Is there a zip code?

[@kurumais]

i wonder if they released a whole troop out to the wild what would happen?

[@VervetMonkey]

They should survive quiet well as the area they live in is the exactly the same as what they would experience

[@omgitsshatner8197]

Do you neuter the male babies before placing them into the intro enclosures

[@VervetMonkey]

All males are vasectomized at 2.5 years of age.

[@kathybradbury]

I heard one of your crew say you’re not a “breeding sanctuary “...does that mean the females are sterilized, or are the troops allowed to have normal interactions?

[@VervetMonkey]

the males are vasectomised

[@donaldsheeley9606]

Surprised there are no video cameras through out your property. Very inexpensive and having them deters thieves and adds safety to your animals.

[@VervetMonkey]

its not easy to get electrical points and wifi in every corner of the foundation or we would, I have 42 cameras for security on the foundation

[@susanmiller1678]

Do foster moms have milk

[@MrAlEKat]

Do you let any of the moms have their own baby?

[@VervetMonkey]

not if we can help it we a non breeding sanctuary

[@luciebutler501]

I wish there was an adoption center in every state idk how to go about the problem there having at my home there allowing the citizens to go into silver springs Florida to shoot these poor animals I wish yall wasn't so far away maybe yall can give some advice on what we might can do about it ? We can't prove who is doing it we truly don't even know! So idk if there is anyone we can call... it's open to the public n there is a lot of people that live around the area that allows others to "hunt" on there property!!! These poor animals never asked to be there some dummy thought monkey's couldn't swim n put them on an island while they was filming Tarzan . Any advice would be greatly appreciated

[@zindoliveira]

👍👍👍👍👍❤❤❤❤❤🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🌻🌻🌻🌻

[@sherryl1275]

Did any other female watching this when this kind sir made the comment that the males were very protective but by far very smart but it works for the troop...lol did any other female laugh an say JUST LIKE THE HUMAN TROOPS... 🤣🤣🤣.... SORRY not really sorry from my troop...lol

[@naam-e-allah7862]

i want to serve in your pr0gamme i am a vet and retired I love monkey