Monica is one of our beloved “wild girls”- a capuchin whose heart still beats to the rhythm of the forest despite everything she’s been through. Before arriving at Jungle Friends, she lived in a massive troop of 24 capuchins at a deteriorating roadside zoo. Because she grew up surrounded almost entirely by her own kind, she never became comfortable with humans, and to this day she prefers to keep a respectful distance. Among monkeys, however, Monica shines!

When the roadside zoo went bankrupt, a large rescue effort began. The capuchins arrived in complex family groups, some with newborn babies and others unexpectedly pregnant due to incorrect information about the males being vasectomized. Monica was moved with a small group of familiar companions, including Rachel and baby Skittles, to whom she quickly adopted the role of “auntie”, offering a gentle presence and watchful eyes even though she wasn’t the mother. Her natural instincts and calm confidence helped the little trio settle safely into their new life.

At Jungle Friends, Monica has continued to blossom. Though she’s still shy around people, she is deeply bonded to her boyfriend Einstein and can often be found following him like a quiet, adoring shadow. She loves exploring her habitat, climbing high when she feels bold and retreating to peaceful corners when she wants space. Monica’s story reminds us that rescue isn’t only about healing from harm, it’s also about honoring who each monkey truly is. And for Monica, that means living wild at heart, surrounded by the companions she trusts.