Second Spider Monkey Rescued in California After Drug Bust

California Traffic Stop Leads to Second Spider Monkey Rescue in Six Months A recent traffic stop near Vallejo, California, resulted in the unexpected rescue of a spider monkey, marking the second such incident in the past six months. The discovery, which followed a drug bust, has raised concerns among wildlife officials about the illegal trafficking of endangered primates. The monkey, a rare and endangered species, was found in the possession of a suspect and taken to the Oakland Zoo, where it has been named Violeta. Zoo staff are providing Violeta with a full medical exam, including CT scans and blood work, to assess her health. While she appears to be doing well, her condition highlights the risks faced by primates illegally kept as pets. "Many times, people don't give these rare monkeys proper nutrition," stated an Oakland Zoo spokesperson. The spokesperson further emphasized the dangers of keeping spider monkeys as pets, stating that they require specialized care and should remain in their natural habitat. The previous incident involved a malnourished spider monkey found in a Rolls-Royce during a traffic stop near Madera earlier this year. This latest rescue underscores the growing concern about the illegal wildlife trade in California and the need for greater enforcement to protect endangered species. The positive outcome is that Violeta is now receiving the proper care she needs, offering a glimmer of hope amidst a troubling trend.