Troutman residents, stay alert: a 5-year-old female capuchin monkey (the same monkey Ross owned in the show “Friends”) escaped Zootastic Park on Wednesday at 8 a.m. The agile primate, known for her distinctive dark “cap” of hair, triggered an immediate response from park officials. Owner Scott Brown, managing over 1,700 animals, explained that the unnamed monkey slipped out undetected.
Native to Central and South America, capuchins are renowned for their intelligence and tool-using skills. Consequently, Zootastic Park staff and Iredell County Animal Services launched a coordinated search across the surrounding area. Brown remains optimistic, hoping the monkey returns by Wednesday evening. If not, trained personnel are prepared to deploy a tranquilizer blow gun to ensure her safe capture.
Iredell County Animal Services issued an urgent advisory: residents should not approach, chase, or attempt to capture the monkey. Instead, immediately report sightings to 704-878-5335. Authorities emphasize public safety and the animal’s well-being as the search intensifies.
