Oakland Zoo takes in malnourished spider monkey seized by CHP

A young spider monkey seized during a traffic stop on Monday has now landed safely at the Oakland Zoo, according to the California Highway Patrol. 

The female spider monkey was discovered by CHP after officers pulled over a driver they say was speeding. The traffic stop happened on State Route 99, and the driver was in a Rolls-Royce Ghost. 

Officers say the driver appeared under the influence when they pulled him over. Inside the vehicle, CHP says officers found marijuana, along with a tiny surprise: a young spider monkey. 

Animal Control responded to the scene to handle the spider monkey, which is illegal to own as a pet in California, CHP said. 

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife eventually took possession of the spider monkey before bringing her to the Oakland Zoo for appropriate care. 

The driver was booked at Madera County Jail and is facing charges for possession of marijuana for sale and possession of an exotic animal. 

The spider monkey is estimated to be 5-6 months old, according to the Oakland Zoo. She arrived with an upper-respiratory infection and is receiving critical care. 

The lucky little lady will soon receive a new name to honor her species, zoo officials said. The zoo also shared details on the inhumane trade of exotic animals like this:

"Primate infants, like spider monkeys, are poached for the exotic pet trade, with most not surviving their first year due to poor care. Mothers are often killed to obtain the infants, who frequently die during transport. The high demand for exotic pets drives this illegal trade, causing suffering for millions of animals. Be an informed consumer and think twice before you purchase an exotic pet." - Oakland Zoo