Update on Oakland Zoo’s Recent Spider Monkey Rescue

On New Year’s Eve, Oakland Zoo was contacted by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) to assist in the rescue of a female spider monkey. This request followed a traffic stop by the California Highway Patrol (CHP) in Madera County on Monday night for a suspected DUI.

Oakland Zoo has a longstanding commitment to rescuing animals from the wildlife pet trade. Most of the Zoo’s animal residents are rescues, many of which have fallen victim to this multi-billion-dollar industry. Wildlife trafficking is among the largest illegal trades globally, ranking just behind drug and human trafficking. Since 2021, the Zoo has received over 100 requests from wildlife agencies, advocacy, and animal rescue groups – from centipedes to primates, amphibians to birds – the Zoo has helped rescue and care for victims of the wildlife pet trade, roadside Zoos, or other criminal activity.

"Wildlife trafficking is a conservation crisis, driving countless animals toward extinction. Innocent creatures suffer, torn from their natural habitats and family groups, only to be exploited for entertainment, personal enjoyment, or profit. This cruel practice not only harms them but devastates ecosystems and humanity alike. At Oakland Zoo, we envision a future where respect, care, and love pave the way for a flourishing planet where people and wildlife thrive together,” says Nik Dehejia, CEO of Oakland Zoo.

Below is an update and answers to the frequently asked questions we’ve received.

What is the current health status of the female spider monkey?

She arrived at the Oakland Zoo’s Veterinary Hospital malnourished, with an abnormal coat and skin, and suffering from an upper respiratory infection. The veterinary staff consider her a critical case but are hopeful for her recovery.

How old is the female spider monkey? Does the spider monkey have a name?

We estimate that she is around five to six months old. She currently does not have a name, but Oakland Zoo staff are determining the best name that pays homage to her species and/or where they are found in the wild.

What is the Oakland Zoo Veterinary Hospital currently doing for her care?

Veterinary Hospital staff are keeping her in a humidified environment to help treat her upper respiratory infection. She has been given necessary fluids, and they are running tests on her skin to determine whether her condition is due to malnutrition or an infection. Additionally, she is being provided with a proper diet.

This Saturday, she will undergo a complete anesthetic procedure and examination to thoroughly assess her current health, with a particular focus on her bone density and to determine if it is a result of malnutrition.

Can people visit the spider monkey while she is being cared for at the Veterinary Hospital?

She is receiving care at the Zoo's Veterinary Hospital and cannot be visited by guests. While we do offer Veterinary Hospital tours, she will not be visible during these tours.

Do exotic animals, like monkeys, make good pets?

In California, it is illegal to own primates privately. Nevertheless, there is an underground world of primate ownership in the United States, where people find ways to obtain and bring them into our state.

The best intentions of private owners, while understandable, in no way compensate for the innate needs of the individual animals housed as pets, many of which suffer the effects of chronic stress, malnutrition, and other maladies. Primate infants, like this spider monkey, are being poached from the wild, and most don’t live to see their first birthday due to inhumane care as pets. There is a high mortality rate even before entering the pet trade. Mothers (and other members of the troop) are often shot to extract the infants from trees and infants often die in transport.  

Will she remain at Oakland Zoo?

After she has fully recovered, the Zoo will work with CDFW and the Wildlife Confiscation Network (WCN) to find her an appropriate home in an accredited zoo or sanctuary, where she can grow up as normally as possible in a troop of other spider monkeys.

What is the Wildlife Confiscation Network (WCN)?

When live wildlife is seized at U.S. ports, providing immediate, high-quality care is essential. The Wildlife Confiscations Network supports wildlife law enforcement by coordinating the immediate medical care and housing for wildlife that are confiscated. Operating under the Wildlife Trafficking Alliance of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, the Network aims to create a national system involving zoos, aquariums, NGOs, universities, botanical gardens, and certified animal sanctuaries. Oakland Zoo is a proud member of WCN.

How can you help support Oakland Zoo’s rescue work?

The Zoo is dedicated to providing exceptional animal care, advocating for animal wellbeing, preserving wildlife, and empowering champions for the natural world. Donor support fuels the Zoo's daily mission, both locally and globally. You can can help support Oakland Zoo, by donating here: oaklandzoo.org/give

How can the public ensure they are responsible pet owners?

High global demand for exotic pets fuels the illegal and unsustainable trade of millions of animals, many of which will suffer and die in the process. Be an informed consumer and think twice before you purchase an exotic pet. Visit NotAPet.Net to learn more.

Contact:  

Isabella Linares

Oakland Zoo

ilinares@oaklandzoo.org

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