Hogle Zoo Welcomed Rescued Spider Monkeys
The Salt Lake City facility added two young spider monkeys to its troop following their rescue from wildlife traffickers.
Updated on Oct. 12, 2026 in Wildlife
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Utah's Hogle Zoo has taken in two spider monkeys, Romina and Eve, that were confiscated from wildlife traffickers. The pair arrived after receiving initial rehabilitation and medical care at the Gladys Porter Zoo in Brownsville, Texas.
Why it matters
The placement highlights the ongoing challenges of wildlife trafficking and the critical role zoos play in providing sanctuary for confiscated animals. Zoo officials expect the young monkeys to serve as educational reminders of the harms caused by the illegal wildlife trade.
Spider monkeys require maternal care for their first 2 years of life, a developmental milestone relevant to the 1-year-old Romina and 2-year-old Eve. The zoo also houses two long-term residents, Lemon and Ebony, who arrived in 1978 and 1977 respectively.
The players
Utah's Hogle Zoo
Located in Salt Lake City, this accredited zoological institution focuses on animal conservation and public education.
Gladys Porter Zoo
Based in Brownsville, Texas, this facility provides specialized animal care and participates in wildlife rehabilitation programs.
The details
After their confiscation, the monkeys underwent intensive round-the-clock hand-rearing at the Gladys Porter Zoo. Staff at Hogle Zoo facilitated a period of adjustment to ensure the new arrivals felt secure before introducing them to the existing troop.
Timeline
1977: Resident spider monkey Ebony arrived at Hogle Zoo.
1978: Resident spider monkey Lemon arrived at Hogle Zoo.
October 12, 2026: The arrival of the rescued monkeys was announced.
Culture Shift
This rescue reflects a broader shift toward modern zoo management that prioritizes the rehabilitation of victims of the illegal wildlife trade. It marks a departure from historical practices by emphasizing the role of accredited institutions as critical sanctuaries for confiscated species.
Visitors to Hogle Zoo can now see the rescued spider monkeys as part of the zoo's ongoing educational programming regarding animal welfare. The arrival serves as a tangible example for the Salt Lake City community on the impact of supporting ethical wildlife practices.
The takeaway
Wildlife trafficking remains a serious threat to juvenile animals that rely on long-term maternal care for survival. Supporting accredited zoos helps ensure that confiscated animals receive the specialized medical and social rehabilitation necessary for them to thrive.
Further reading
Learn more about local conservation efforts in our Wildlife section.
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