Ethel doesn’t seek out attention, but she sure knows how to get it. With a commanding presence and sharp instincts, she exudes confidence. While she may not be eager to interact with humans, she’s not above making a quick appearance, especially if snacks are involved. She’ll take as much as she can carry, then disappear just as quickly, perfectly satisfied.

Ethel’s life changed dramatically when she was rescued from a failing roadside zoo alongside a number of other capuchins. What was expected to be a routine rescue became unexpectedly complicated when, despite claims that all the males were vasectomized, three of the females gave birth shortly after arriving. The group had to be carefully reorganized, with mothers and infants separated from the males for safety, and the males moved into a bachelor group until proper procedures could be completed.

Eventually, Ethel was paired with a compatible companion, Silly Willy, and the two have since formed a close, if unflashy, bond. While she’s affectionate within her social circle, there’s no doubt who runs the show. These days, Ethel enjoys a peaceful, enriched life full of grooming, exploring, and staying just out of reach unless the price (preferably peanuts) is right. Strong-willed and quietly brilliant, Ethel knows exactly who she is, and she makes no apologies.