Primate Update E-Newsletter, Vol. 3, Issue 8, Part 1

PPS PRIMATES in the SPOTLIGHT

Meet Millie

On September 21, 2003 a white-tufted eared marmoset was born at a biomedical laboratory. She was identified as #034084. That number was tattooed on her body. This drug-product research company houses around 2,000 primates and is hired by firms like Pfizer and Eli Lilly, to conduct toxicity animal testing for agrochemicals, petrochemicals, household products, pharmaceuticals and toxins. Government reports indicate, "Highly toxic agents were being injected into animals without the use of methods to relieve pain and distress." Primates die from the toxic side effects.

In 2002, the company was cited by the US Department of Agriculture for 133 violations of the Animal Welfare Act for failure to provide adequate veterinary care, housing, and sanitation. The most basic needs of the animals were repeatedly disregarded. In 2005, in just a 3- week period, 20 marmoset monkeys died of emaciation. In November of 2007, a female macaque monkey at this inhumane facility was boiled alive in a 180-degree automated cage washer.

PPS was contacted by a veterinarian at the laboratory. She was resigning and wanted to get at least some of the monkeys out of the lab before she left. A family of 10 marmosets was sent to Pacific Primate Sanctuary. Finally, these monkeys would be cared for and treated with the respect and compassion that they deserve. Number 034084 is known as Millie- she is no longer “just a number”. Millie spends most of her time in her lush jungle enclosure, being groomed in the sun by her devoted companion, Ernesto.

Millie and her family were fortunate to escape, however many more monkeys still live out their days in terrible conditions. Please help us continue to provide a place refuge for abused and neglected primates. Donate now at: http://www.pacificprimate.org/help-donate.htm

SANCTUARY NEWS

Final Inspection from USDA Veterinary Medical Officer, Dr. Elizabeth Lyons
A few months ago we said farewell to Dr. Elizabeth Lyons, who has been our Federal inspector for many years. Dr. Lyons has always been a strong advocate for the rights of animals, and we will miss her dearly. In her final inspection report of PPS, Dr. Lyons wrote:

I have been inspecting this facility for more than 24 years- my entire APHIS career. Not once has there ever been a hint of a noncompliant item. At all times, the facilities and care provided here have far exceeded USDA regulations and standards. Because this is the last inspection report I will generate before my retirement, I would like to express my profound gratitude and appreciation for the work done here. It has been my pleasure to observe the growth and change, which continue to benefit and enhance all primates (humans included) associated with this special sanctuary. With warmest aloha…

Magnus and Melia are 

growing up quickly!

Our youngest residents have been growing rapidly, and have officially been named! Magnus and Melia are twin endangered cotton-top tamarins, born on April 4. They are now comfortably clambering around and jumping from branch to branch in their outdoor enclosure, and able to eat on their own. However, if their mother, Nadine, has a particularly tasty treat, she is always willing to share with either of her offspring should they come up for a taste.

The lush Capuchin enclosure

The Capuchin enclosures got a makeover this month! PPS Volunteers planted many new plants including hibiscus, palm, ti, and ice cream bean. Viola immediately began swinging on a very large palm plant, while Miranda focused on examining every inch of a Ti plant (and finding tasty bugs in the process!). Prospero and Miracle were particularly interested in the ice cream bean tree in their enclosure.

Cotton-top tamarins, Hector and Persephone, were paired just a few months ago. We are happy to report that this pairing is a huge success! Hector and Persephone spend most of their time side-by-side exploring their outdoor enclosure, lounging on their bamboo bridge, or nestling close together on a platform.

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