Primate Update E-Newsletter, Vol. 4, Issue 4, Part 1

Celebrate Earth Day by supporting the Monkeys at PPS!

PPS PRIMATES in the SPOTLIGHT 

Sylvan 

Sylvan came to Pacific Primate Sanctuary in June 2001, along with his parents, Stevie and Gladys, and sister, Etta. Sylvan had spent his life closed away in the back room of a pet shop. He was kept separate from the rest of his family, living all alone. The area where they were kept was dark, and they never had the opportunity to see the outside world. Fortunately, the pet store was cited by the USDA inspector for numerous animal welfare violations. The monkeys were brought to Pacific Primate Sanctuary shortly afterwards.

 Sylvan was introduced into an outdoor enclosure. Finally, he was able to feel the warm sun on his fur, to examine plants with his nimble fingers, and jump between branches using limbs that were designed for just these movements. We have tried to pair Sylvan with other monkeys many times, hoping he was ready to accept a companion and develop a normal social relationship. Unfortunately, the injuries from being housed alone as a young monkey run deep in Sylvan, and each time we tried to pair him, he has become aggressive. Even being in close proximity to some monkeys, particularly other males, causes stress for Sylvan. We are careful in choosing the best locations for Sylvan so he can be close to other monkeys, observe and communicate with them, but not be near those who make him agitated. We will never know what Sylvan endured before he came to PPS, but we will always provide him with compassionate care and give him all the time he needs to heal.

Please sponsor Sylvan to help provide him with refuge and rehabilitation. Donate now at: http://www.pacificprimate.org/help-donate.htm 

SANCTUARY NEWS 

 Welcome back Sunshine! 

Carlos

Echo

The winter rains have slowed, and the monkeys have all been enjoying the change in the weather. Each morning, the volunteer caregivers walk through the Sanctuary to check the health status of each monkey. Lately, we have found all of the monkeys outside, basking in the warm sunshine. Their beautiful little faces tilted upwards, soaking in the golden rays. Many of the monkeys had never been outside before coming to Pacific Primate Sanctuary- they had spent their lives closed away in laboratories, pet stores, and apartments. It brings joy to our hearts to see them take pleasure in the natural world, as they were always meant to do.

Enzo

We Mourn the Passing of Beloved Olivia 

Baby Olivia wants to play!    

Olivia, a white-tufted eared marmoset, was born at Pacific Primate Sanctuary. Her mother, Edie, died in childbirth and Olivia was hand reared by loving caregivers. She grew into a beautiful young woman at the Sanctuary but lacked social skills. When Lucian arrived from a research laboratory, we paired Olivia with him. Their rehabilitation was complete as they learned to be a fully functioning family. They spent their time together outdoors, with their offspring. Several years ago, Olivia was diagnosed with heart disease. Fortunately, with the help of Dr. Dressler, we were able to find the right combination of medications and supplements to keep Olivia active and healthy despite her heart condition. Over the last several months, Olivia’s health has been declining. PPS volunteers have been there with her through it all, providing Olivia with her medications, and emergency care, when needed. Olivia passed away on the morning of April 1, with caregivers Linda, Mary and Erin by her side. This small monkey had a very large presence, and she will be greatly missed by all who have cared for and loved her over the years.

Olivia with her mate, Lucian, and daughter, Bianca

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