Monkey Recovering From Assault

A Capuchin monkey is recovering after it was injured while apparently trying to stop an intruder from taking a younger monkey. Officials at the Wright Park Zoo in Dodge City, KS say the older monkey, Vern, was hurt, and his son, Pickett, was found on the outskirts of Dodge City on Sept. 3. The younger monkey was not injured.

Officials initially thought Vern’s injuries were minor, but a veterinarian found injuries apparently caused by blunt force trauma. The monkey underwent surgery at Kansas State University on Sept. 10 to repair broken bones.

Zoo spokeswoman Abbey Martin said Monday that Pickett is doing well and back on display. Vern remains in quarantine while he recovers.

Dodge City Police are investigating the incident. Martin says there are no developments in the investigation.