Oakland Zoo Helps Rescue Endangered Spider Monkey, Violeta, Surrendered During Search Warrant in Vallejo, California

OAKLAND ZOO CONTACT INFORMATION:

Isabella Linares

Oakland Zoo

ilinares@oaklandzoo.org

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May 12, 2025 Oakland, CA... Last Thursday, the Oakland Zoo assisted with the rescue of a female spider monkey (now named Violeta) who was surrendered by her owner during a narcotics related search warrant conducted by the Solano County Sheriff’s Office in Vallejo, CA. Violeta was then transported by an Oakland Zoo Animal Care staff member to the Zoo’s Veterinary Hospital. She was reported to be in decent health and around 18 months old, during her initial and awake physical exam. Veterinary staff have begun UV light treatments and calcium supplementation. In the next week, the Oakland Zoo’s Veterinary staff will perform a CT scan, a more thorough physical exam, and bloodwork to assess organ function and infectious disease status. Veterinary Hospital staff are taking measures to ensure Violeta's overall wellbeing and have reported that she is doing well in her temporary home where keepers have set up enrichment, along with blankets and toys to keep her comfortable and stimulated. They are providing her with a healthy diet that includes a variety of fruits and vegetables, and she is drinking formula that will help to minimize the likelihood of pathologic bony fractures.

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) categorizes spider monkeys as endangered, with two species classified as critically endangered and nearing extinction. This is primarily due to habitat loss, hunting, and the exotic pet trade. Spider monkeys 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. 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. It is crucial to raise awareness about the threats these animals face and to take action to end this deadly trade," says Colleen Kinzley, VP of Animal Care, Conservation, and Research at Oakland Zoo.  

Wildlife trafficking is one of the largest illegal trades in the world, second only to drug and human trafficking. This trade is fueled by the demand for these remarkable animals, whether as pets or for profit-driven businesses, such as photo opportunities and interactive experiences. Additionally, engagement on social media and other forms of entertainment play a significant role in driving this demand. The Oakland Zoo has played a significant role in Taking Action for Wildlife through its rescue program. Most of the Zoo’s animal residents are rescues, many of which have fallen victim to this multi-billion-dollar industry.

“Wildlife trafficking is a growing conservation crisis, driving countless species, like spider monkeys and other nonhuman primates, toward extinction. These animals are often exploited through the exotic pet trade, kept in unsafe, inhumane conditions that threaten both their welfare and public safety. The Captive Primate Safety Act, recently introduced in Congress is a critical step toward ending this exploitation by banning the private ownership of primates and reinforcing our national commitment to responsible wildlife protection,” says Nik Dehejia, CEO at Oakland Zoo

The Zoo has played a crucial role in rescuing and caring for a diverse range of animals, including insects, amphibians, primates, and birds. Since 2021, the Oakland Zoo has received over 100 requests from wildlife agencies, advocacy groups, and animal rescue organizations for assistance with rescue efforts. These efforts have aimed to support victims of the wildlife pet trade, roadside zoos, and other criminal activities. Recently, in January, the Zoo assisted in the rescue of a spider monkey named Azules on New Year’s Eve. Azules was discovered in the front seat of a Rolls Royce after a traffic stop conducted by the California Highway Patrol (CHP) in Madera County, which was initiated due to a suspected DUI.

Over 15,000 non-human primates in the U.S. are estimated to live in unsuitable conditions. In California, private ownership of primates is illegal, but an underground market exists. There are no federal laws regulating primate ownership, and state laws vary from total bans to species-specific permits. The Captive Primate Safety Act (CPSA) would amend the Lacey Act Amendments of 1981, federally prohibiting the pet primate trade and protecting these brilliant primates from a lifetime of suffering. The demand for pet primates in the US encourages the brutal international trafficking in these species.

For more information on this story and how to support the Oakland Zoo’s Taking Action for Wildlife, here is a list of frequently asked questions:

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

Violeta is receiving care at the Oakland 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 Violeta has fully recovered, the Oakland Zoo will work with California Department of Fish & Wildlife (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 Oakland 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 Oakland Zoo's daily mission, both locally and globally. To support the Oakland Zoo and their rescue work, please donate at www.oaklandzoo.org/give.

How can the public ensure they are responsible pet owners?

The high global demand for exotic pets drives the illegal and unsustainable trade of millions of animals, many of which suffer and die in the process. It’s important to be an informed consumer and think carefully before purchasing an exotic pet. You can help by educating yourself and sharing information about the cruelty of the pet trade. Additionally, refrain from sharing social media posts featuring baby wild animals unless they are from reputable and accredited facilities. Visit NotAPet.Net to learn more.

ABOUT OAKLAND ZOO AND THE CONSERVATION SOCIETY OF CALIFORNIA:

Oakland Zoo envisions a flourishing planet where people and wildlife thrive together. The Zoo’s mission is to deepen connections with animals, save wildlife, and inspire champions for the natural world. Oakland Zoo is an accredited Association of Zoos & Aquariums member, managed by the Conservation Society of California, a non-profit organization. ‍

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