Capuchin Monkey on the Loose Near Charlotte, NC; Officials Urge Caution
CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Residents in Iredell County are being urged to stay alert after a capuchin monkey was spotted roaming freely outside Charlotte this week.
Escape From Local Zoo Suspected
According to Iredell County Animal Services, the monkey is believed to belong to Zootastic Park in Troutman, located about 30 miles north of Charlotte along the I-77 corridor.
Zoo staff and county officials are now working together to safely capture and return the animal. Authorities have not disclosed how the primate managed to escape. No other animals — such as lions, giraffes, tigers, or sloths — are believed to be loose.
Recent Sightings
The monkey was most recently spotted climbing utility equipment but has otherwise kept to itself.
Wildlife experts say capuchins typically weigh between 3 and 9 pounds and are highly intelligent, known for their ability to use tools and adapt to human environments.
Public Safety Advisory
Officials warned residents not to approach or attempt to capture the animal.
“Do NOT attempt to capture, chase, or interact with the monkey,” county staff said in a statement. Instead, residents are urged to call 704-878-5335 if they spot the primate.
Context and Past Escapes
Capuchin monkeys are native to Central and South America but are legal to own in more than a dozen U.S. states, including North Carolina.
The situation follows a 2024 incident in South Carolina, where 43 monkeys escaped from a research facility outside Charleston. All were eventually recaptured over two months, with snacks like peanut butter and jelly used to lure them back.
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