Nature: Lucy's Second Chance - The Journey of a Young Squirrel Monkey - Kids Saving the Rainforest

photo provided by Yeimy Gamboa

Lucy was just a juvenile when she arrived at our wildlife rescue center. She had been electrocuted by a power line a growing threat to many arboreal species as human development continues to push into the natural habitats of wild animals. Fortunately, Lucy was one of the lucky ones. Her injuries, were not extensive enough to threaten her life or her ability to recover.

Lucy Shows Signs of Healing

After a period of observation and care, Lucy showed strong signs of healing, She was eating, climbing, and interacting as any young monkey should. Because of her promising recovery, we made the decision to return to her natural home. She was released on-site with a nearby wild troop, and our team continued monitoring her closely.

But nature, while beautiful, can be unforgiving.

Just days after her release, Lucy suffered an attack by a wild troop of capuchin monkeys. This aggressive encounter resulted in severe injuries and, ultimately, the amputation of her tail. For squirrel monkeys, the tail is not just an extension of the body, it’s a vital tool for balance, agility, and survival among the treetops.

Lucy is a Champ

Many animals would not have survived what Lucy went through, She endured, she healed. Slowly but surely, her wounds closed. During her recovery, Lucy bonded with another juvenile squirrel monkey in our care, a fellow juvenile undergoing rehabilitation. The two formed a strong friendship finding comfort in one another’s presence. They played, groomed, and rested side by side, offering each other the kind of support only animals seem to understand in the deepest way.

Inspired by her resilience and new bond, our team decided to try one more release, this time with both monkeys together. But even with the support of her companion, Lucy’s missing tail made her vulnerable. Her speed and agility were no match for the challenges of the wild. Tragically, she was again targeted by predators, and it became painfully clear for our team that Lucy would not survive on her own in the rainforest.

Still, Lucy’s story didn’t end there because she wasn’t alone.

Our Team is the Best

Thanks to the dedication of our team, and the love and support of the Kids Saving the Rainforest community, we found Lucy a new forever home in Guanacaste, SIBU Sanctuary. There, she lives in safety surrounded by compassionate caregivers and other animals who, like her, have overcome great odds.

Lucy may never return to the wild, but she reminds us that every life is worth fighting for, that compassion, persistence, and second chances matter.

Kids Saving the Rainforest is located in the heart of Manuel Antonio. Our rescue centre passionately focuses on the rescue, research, and rehabilitation of iconic species such as sloths, primates and parrots. We're deeply involved in the creation of wildlife bridges, reforestation projects, and educational initiatives for local children. For more information and to donate please visit: https://www.kidssavingtherainforest.org/