‘Frightened’ Marmoset Monkey Found ‘Disguised as Laundry’ in Bag on London Bus

A marmoset monkey, affectionately named Oyster, has found refuge in an animal sanctuary after being discovered abandoned inside a laundry bag on a bus in London. The incident occurred on July 17 and has raised concerns about the implications of recent changes to the law on pet ownership for primates in the UK.

Oyster, a female monkey native to South America, was found hidden inside the bag, which disguised her presence on the Metroline bus. The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA), who have been involved in the case, reported that she was discovered when a passenger attempted to navigate past the bag and the frightened marmoset made her presence known. Witnesses have shared that the monkey appeared to be distressed and scared.

According to the RSPCA’s statement, the bus driver and his team provided crucial assistance by ensuring Oyster was kept in a cool, dark environment until help arrived. They are now cooperating with the ongoing investigation to identify who left her on the bus. The charity has appealed for information from anyone who may have seen a person boarding the 302 service with a laundry bag between Mill Hill Broadway Station and Kensal Rise that day.

In light of new legislation that came into effect in April, which requires owners to obtain a licence to keep primates as pets, the RSPCA believes that incidents like Oyster’s abandonment may become more frequent. The government estimates that there are around 5,000 primates kept as pets in England. The new licensing system aims to ensure that any primates kept in private homes are subject to strict regulations relating to their physical, mental, behavioural, and social well-being, similar to standards in accredited facilities such as zoos.

The charity has reiterated its position against the keeping of primates as pets, advocating instead for a future where monkeys are protected in environments that cater to their needs. Clare Dew, Chief Inspector for the RSPCA in London, shared insights into the circumstances surrounding Oyster’s rescue. She noted that the monkey was discovered inside a small cage that was cleverly concealed within the laundry bag. Though she had been provided with some apple, Oyster was understandably stressed and dehydrated.

No signs of a struggle were noted on the bus before the discovery of the monkey. The RSPCA plans to review CCTV footage and passenger logs to track down the individual who abandoned her. Dew expressed concern that this incident may not be an isolated case, suggesting that the new regulations might lead to more primates being discarded as their owners face challenges in compliance.

In light of this incident, the RSPCA is appealing to pet owners who may be struggling with the new legislation or who are unable to care for their pets. Dew urged individuals in such situations to reach out to professionals, veterinarians, or animal charities rather than abandoning their animals, which can have dire consequences.

Following a thorough health check-up by a specialist exotic vet, Oyster has been declared healthy. She is now in a sanctuary that is well-equipped for the care of primates, where she is gradually acclimatising to her new surroundings. The RSPCA has reported that plans are underway to introduce Oyster to a male marmoset companion soon, providing her with the social interaction essential to her species.

Interestingly, a sanctuary had been in coordination with the RSPCA to find a female marmoset to pair with a lone male. The serendipitous timing of their need for a female coinciding with Oyster’s rescue has been described by Dew as a twist of fate, suggesting that Oyster’s placement in the sanctuary was meant to be.

The caregivers at the sanctuary are optimistic about Oyster’s transition; she has already begun settling in well and is responding positively to her new environment. If her prior owner does not come forward to claim her, she will remain there, enjoying the company of experienced keepers and a spacious enclosure.

Metroline and Transport for London (TfL) have yet to provide any official comment regarding the incident. As the investigation continues, the RSPCA is hopeful that raising awareness about the responsibilities of primate ownership will discourage irresponsible behaviour and promote proper care for these sensitive creatures.