Primate Update E-Newsletter, Vol. 4, Issue 5, Part 1

PPS PRIMATES in the SPOTLIGHT 

Neptune 

Every 8 years, the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN) assesses the population trends of species. Sadly, for most animals, the numbers are decreasing faster than they can be counted. The majority of primate species are already classified as Vulnerable, and the danger of their total annihilation is fast becoming a reality.

 In 2008, Cotton top tamarins (Saguinus oedipus), who are native to Columbia, went from being listed as Endangered to Critically Endangered, which means they are facing the highest risk of extinction in the wild. This species has lost over 80% of its population in just the last 18 years! Their native habitat is being cleared for farmland, leaving their original range fragmented and down to less than 25% of its previous size.

 One of the biggest causes of the drastic decline is the use of cotton top tamarins, as well as other primates, in biomedical research- 30,000 individuals were taken from their native forests in the 1960’s for this inhumane industry. Despite the tenuous status of this species, it is shocking to know that many individuals are still being used in research. “50 animals die in U.S. Labs every minute.” (Michael Budkie, S.A.E.N) 

Neptune is a cotton top tamarin whose parents, Echo and Apollo, were rescued from a research laboratory. When they arrived at Pacific Primate Sanctuary they were terrified and wounded, both physically and mentally. We could see the extent of their suffering in their aberrant behavior and the deep emptiness in their eyes. At the Sanctuary, they were finally given the opportunity to heal their bodies and their minds. Being liberated from exploitation and abuse is only the beginning, recovering from the slavery within can take many generations. With the birth and normal rearing of Neptune, seven years later, we knew their rehabilitation was successful. They were slowly reclaiming their birthright.

Neptune has spent the last 9 years living in an outdoor enclosure with his parents. He has learned how to be a functioning member of a family- sleeping close together for warmth, eating from the same food bowls in harmony, alarm calling to alert the group of potential danger, scent marking the home territory, and tenderly grooming one another.

Neptune and Leticia exploring their enclosure

Neptune has now been paired with Leticia and these unifying behaviors have allowed him to become a remarkable partner. They immediately formed a close bond, and spend countless hours exploring the plants and branches in their enclosure together. If he becomes a father one day, his children will join the “free generation” of monkeys at PPS, who never will have to endure pain and suffering at human hands. Creating his own flourishing family will allow Neptune to live a full life and give us renewed hope for the future of his species.

 Your support can help us prevent the extinction of this unique and precious species. Donate now at: http://www.pacificprimate.org/help-donate.htm

SANCTUARY NEWS 

 Celebration! 
All beings on this planet are sacred, and each individual life is truly a miracle to rejoice in. Here at Pacific Primate Sanctuary we show our appreciation for every single monkey by celebrating his/her birthday. Volunteers mark the birthdays on the monthly calendar, and take extra time on that day to do something really special. Through the many festivities- from Ti leaf presents, to special treats on a woven leaf mat, we have discovered that every primate loves a party!

Anna and Lazero work together to unwrap their birthday present 

Carlos and Margarite use their nimble fingers to open up a Ti leaf present,
along with a beautiful ginger flower, filled with delicious sweet nectar 

On her 17^th birthday, Echo received a mat woven from leaves covered with 

many of her favorite treats spelling out“Happy B-Day 17”

We Mourn the Passing of Beloved Iktomi 

This critically endangered cotton top tamarin spent 13 years at Pacific Primate Sanctuary. Over the years, Iktomi’s mobility decreased due to a neurological disorder, until he reached a state of almost total paralysis. Iktomi was so fortunate to have a devoted companion, Leticia, who spent her days grooming him and staying close to provide warmth and comfort.

 Intern Alli remembers this pair well, and writes: “My favorite memories are definitely about both Iktomi and Leticia together. Despite his mobility issues, Iktomi had one of the most luxurious cotton tops of the whole corridor thanks to Leticia. I also loved seeing them snuggled up tight together in the tent at bed time.” 

 Several months ago, Iktomi became immobilized to the extent that he could no longer care for himself. He became totally dependent upon the support of his caregivers, who have tenderly fed him, wrapped him in soft blankets, taken him outdoors into the sunlight, cleaned and bathed him, and deeply enjoyed his company. He was a strong monkey, who cherished every moment of life, despite his lack of mobility. 

PPS volunteers cared for Iktomi devotedly, with mindful awareness of his needs and preferences. Because of their care, he was able to choose the time of his death and passed away quietly in his sleep on Tuesday, April 10th. Iktomi’s undefeated spirit and determination to live, regardless of his physical handicaps, touched all of our hearts.

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