Wild monkey rescues in Venezuela and Peru highlight illegal pet trade

Environmental authorities in El Tigre, Venezuela, rescued a capuchin monkey that had escaped from illegal captivity in the Cincuentenario sector. A multidisciplinary commission captured the animal without injury and placed it under the care of the state environmental agency for medical evaluation. The incident was the third primate captivity case reported in the jurisdiction within two months, prompting officials to warn residents about the legal penalties for keeping wildlife as pets.

In the Peruvian region of Moquegua, the National Forestry and Wildlife Service (Serfor) rescued a black howler monkey found chained in the town of Ilo. The primate was in critical condition, suffering from chronic malnutrition, anemia, liver damage and skin injuries. It is now in quarantine receiving veterinary treatment while authorities reiterate their "No te compres un delito" campaign against illegal wildlife trade and urge the public to report such cases.