Two spider monkeys come out of solitary confinement for the first time

A spider monkey that was rescued from a Peruvian circus in the Andean town of Cusco by Animal Defenders International (ADI) has been introduced to another spider monkey for the first time.

Pepe, the spider monkey rescued by
Animal Defenders International

Pepe had been kept alone and chained by the neck for eight years, and his canine teeth had been snapped off so that there was no danger of him biting anyone.

ADI has been assisting the Peruvian authorities to enforce their ban on the use of wild animals in circuses, as well as with the relocation of animals seized from the illegal pet trade – a mission called Operation Spirit of Freedom.

Pepe was brought up to full health and his teeth were repaired by a veterinary dentist. The next step was to socialise him with others of his kind.

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Nine lions rescued from Peru circuses in first stage of ADI's Operation Spirit of Freedom

Nine lions have been rescued from three circuses in Peru in the first part of a huge rescue mission by the charity Animal Defenders International (ADI), which aims to rescue up to 30 lions.

The mission follows Peru's 2011 ban on animal circuses, which came about after ADI investigations and udercover filming revealed the animals living in horrific conditions. 

ADI are now working with Peru’s authorities including SERFOR (wildlife and environment), ATFFS (enforcement), and the police. It is hoped that together they will be able to rescue 20-30 lions over the upcoming months.

At one circus it was only possible to recue three of six lions from the circus, after which the remaining male attacked a female teacher during a performance.

ADI is now urging that the lion, and two cubs, be handed to SERFOR for ADI to relocate. The charity has issued a statement explaining that the circus caused the lion to be distressed and angry and should not have put him in the show with the public.

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