NORTH CAROLINA — A Capuchin monkey escaped from Zootastic zoo in Troutman on Wednesday, zoo officials confirmed.
Owner Scottie Brown said the 10-year-old monkey, used for breeding, pulled wire bars apart to slip out of its enclosure.
A video recorded by a bystander showed the monkey climbing power lines in the area. The clip quickly went viral, receiving over 41,000 views and nearly 300 shares within the first 90 minutes.
Brown said this was the first time a monkey had escaped from the zoo. By the time staff reached the location in the video, the monkey was gone. He added that he believes the animal could find its way back to the zoo if it is not captured.
Iredell County Animal Services urged the public not to attempt to catch the monkey. Anyone who spots the animal is asked to contact Zootastic at 704-309-5564 or Animal Services at 704-878-5335.
