Endangered monkey rescued in Vallejo recovering at Oakland Zoo

(KRON) — An endangered spider monkey found during a narcotics-related search warrant in Vallejo last week is now recovering at the Oakland Zoo, according to officials.

The female monkey, named Violeta, is around 18 months old. She was found to be in “decent” health during her initial exam, and was started on calcium supplements and UV light treatment, the Oakland Zoo said.

Violeta was surrendered to zoo staff by her owner on Thursday while the Solano County Sheriff’s Office conducted a search warrant, officials said. All primates are illegal to privately own in California. Spider monkeys, the Zoo said, are currently one of the most trafficked animals across the border.

“Infant spider monkeys in the pet trade are often the result of their mothers and family members being shot down from the trees to capture the baby,” said Colleen Kinzley, vice president of the zoo’s Animal Care, Conservation, and Research Department. “Many times, the baby is killed or injured due to the fall. Once they enter the pet trade, these animals typically do not receive a proper diet or adequate socialization with other monkeys, which can lead to lifelong physical and mental health issues.”

Earlier this year, the Oakland Zoo took in a malnourished spider monkey that was found during a suspected DUI traffic stop in Madera County.

Once Violeta fully recovers, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife and the Wildlife Confiscation Network will assist the zoo in finding her a home in an accredited zoo or sanctuary. The Oakland Zoo hopes that Violeta will be able to “grow up as normally as possible in a troop of other spider monkeys.”