Carl spent 22 long years in the confines of research labs, where he was involved in studies focused on Ecstasy and Malaria. In 2022, his path finally took a brighter turn when he was retired from those trials and found his way to Jungle Friends. There, Carl met Earl, another squirrel monkey who had narrowly avoided being part of Schizophrenia studies—experiments that were ultimately scrapped when it was discovered that squirrel monkeys weren’t suitable models.

At Jungle Friends, Carl and Earl quickly formed a close bond, becoming inseparable companions. Carl, a sweet and gentle soul, is content to let Earl take the dominant role while he enjoys the newfound freedom and tranquility of his sanctuary life. When Carl first arrived, his black cap was streaked with white hair—a sign of the stress of his past. But with time spent in the fresh air and sunshine, those white hairs have mostly faded, leaving behind a healthier, darker coat. Carl’s transformation highlights the healing power of friendship and the restorative effects of a peaceful environment.