Flashback to the Wild: A Lost Spider Monkey’s Unlikely Ride Ends in California Luxury
**Baby Spider Monkey Discovered in California Receives Emergency Treatment**
A baby spider monkey, discovered by the California Highway Patrol (CHP) earlier this week, is in critical condition due to malnutrition, skin and coat problems, and an upper respiratory infection. However, veterinarians at the Oakland Zoo are providing lifesaving care and hope for a full recovery.
The tiny primate, estimated to be around 5 or 6 months old, was found in a Rolls-Royce Ghost during a traffic stop on Highway 99 in Madera County. CHP officers were surprised to discover the monkey in a jumpsuit, along with a large amount of marijuana and a mobile phone.
**Her Journey to Recovery**
The baby monkey was brought to the Oakland Zoo, where she is currently being treated in a humid environment to combat her upper respiratory tract infection. She is receiving fluids and a proper diet to address her malnutrition. Veterinary staff are conducting tests to determine if her skin condition is caused by malnutrition or infection.
This weekend, the monkey will undergo surgery and examinations under anesthesia to assess her overall health and check if she has low bone density due to malnutrition.
**A Case Against Keeping Primates as Pets**
The discovery of the baby spider monkey highlights the illegal and inhumane treatment of primates as pets. Zoo officials emphasize that it is illegal to keep primates as pets in California, and the poor condition of the baby spider monkey is a stark reminder of the consequences of this cruel practice.
Baby primates, including spider monkeys, are being poached from the wild and often do not live beyond their first year due to the substandard care they receive as pets. The Oakland Zoo urges the public to understand the complex needs of exotic and wild animals and to demand action against wildlife trafficking.
**A New Home Awaits**
Once the baby monkey makes a full recovery, the Oakland Zoo will work with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife and the Wildlife Confiscation Network to find her a new home at an accredited zoo or sanctuary where she can grow up with other spider monkeys.
**FAQs**
**Q: What is the current condition of the baby spider monkey?**
A: The baby monkey is in critical condition due to malnutrition, skin and coat problems, and an upper respiratory infection.
**Q: How is she being treated?**
A: She is being treated in a humid environment to combat her upper respiratory tract infection, given fluids and a proper diet to address her malnutrition, and will undergo surgery and examinations under anesthesia to assess her overall health.
**Q: Why is it illegal to keep primates as pets in California?**
A: It is illegal to keep primates as pets in California due to the danger it poses to both humans and primates. Primates have complex social and physical needs that cannot be met in a home environment, leading to poor care and neglect.
**Q: What is being done to prevent wildlife trafficking?**
A: The Oakland Zoo and other organizations are working to raise awareness about the illegal pet trade and its devastating impact on endangered species. They are also supporting efforts to find new homes for rescued animals and to hold perpetrators accountable for their actions.
**Conclusion**
The case of the baby spider monkey is a tragic reminder of the urgent need to combat wildlife trafficking and promote the welfare of endangered species. As the Oakland Zoo works to save this young primate, it is essential to recognize the importance of responsible animal ownership and the devastating consequences of neglecting the complex needs of exotic and wild animals.
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