Monkey Who Escaped North Carolina Zoo Hit by a Car, Officials Say

A capuchin monkey that made a daring escape from Zootastic Park near Troutman, North Carolina, met with an unfortunate accident when it was hit by a car, according to animal control officials in the area. The incident occurred on Tuesday, September 23, and authorities have confirmed that the monkey, a native species to Latin America, was struck near Troutman, located about 35 miles outside Charlotte. While the monkey has been returned to its owners at the zoo, there is no official update on its health status as of yet.

This escapade began on September 17 when the capuchin monkey managed to break free from its enclosure at Zootastic Park, prompting a response from Iredell County Animal Services. The agency quickly engaged with the park to secure the safe recapture of the monkey. The park, known for its ‘animal encounters,’ where visitors can interact closely with various animals, including the capuchin monkey, issued a safety warning urging people not to approach or attempt to capture the escaped primate.

Videos captured by residents and shared by local news outlets depicted the monkey climbing utility poles and wires in the area, highlighting the extraordinary journey of the tiny creature. Capuchin monkeys, typically weighing between three to nine pounds, are recognisable by their dark brown fur with cream accents and are commonly found in regions across Brazil and Latin America. These social animals usually live in groups ranging from 10 to 35 members and sustain themselves on a diet of fruits, insects, leaves, and small birds.

Following the monkey’s harrowing ordeal on the streets, authorities swiftly intervened, and the monkey was transferred back to the care of its owners at Zootastic Park. The Iredell County Animal Services refrained from disclosing specifics on how the escape occurred, leaving room for speculation on the primate’s clever manoeuvre. The park management has not yet provided any updates on the monkey’s condition post-accident, raising concerns among animal lovers and residents in the region.

Efforts to keep the capuchin monkey out of harm’s way continue, with hopes resting on the expertise of the zoo staff to ensure the animal’s wellbeing. As the story unfolds and primate enthusiasts await news of the monkey’s recovery, the incident serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of wildlife encounters and the importance of conservation efforts to protect vulnerable species. Stay tuned for further updates on this curious case of the runaway monkey and the community’s response to the unexpected adventure that unfolded in their midst.