The Ministry of Ecology and Renewable Natural Resources of Misiones gave a new opportunity to eight rehabilitated capuchin monkeys, as a demonstration of their commitment to conservation of biodiversity.
These animals were released in the Urugua-í Provincial Park, where the specimens that managed to recover from different situations, of which they were victims, can live in the conditions they truly deserve.
This release was carried out together with the Ohana Foundation, an institution that works in the recovery and rehabilitation of rescued wildlife. This day marked the end of a process of months of care, veterinary attention, and adaptation, which was essential for their reintroduction into nature.
In addition to the monkeys, an otter was also released, which is now in its natural habitat. However, these were not the only animals released this month, as two coatis, two Mataica parrots, a toucan, and a turtle returned to their natural homes after being rescued from being kept as pets.
A fundamental member of the jungle
The capuchin monkey is distinguished by its dark coloration and small size, as it weighs no more than four kilos. They can be found in the dense jungles and tall forests located between southern Colombia and northern Argentina, such as Jujuy, Salta, and Misiones, although their presence is notable in El Rey National Park, Salta.
When they are in their natural habitat, it is common to see them in small troops or family groups, consisting of 8 to 20 individuals, led by the dominant male. This leads them to develop certain social skills, as they become territorial, intelligent, and lively.
Regarding their diet, capuchin monkeys feed on a wide variety of foods, preferring fruits, insects, eggs, and small vertebrates.
What is the conservation status of the capuchin monkey?
In Argentina, the capuchin monkey is endangered or in the “vulnerable” category, as like the howler monkey, the species is disappearing due to the uncontrolled destruction of forests.
Although, for now, their populations do not face major threats, their conservation closely depends on the preservation of the environment and human action. This is because it is one of the most traded primate species to be used as pets and as experimental animals in laboratories.
