Monkey (back in) business! Baby Estrellita released back in wild after seeing mum die

Out of the depths of despair, hope is born.

The life of baby Howler monkey Estrellita hung in the balance after her mother was electrocuted and killed by uninsulated power cables.

Desperately clinging to Mama Maria, who perished from severe burns, the young primate had to be plucked from her back by rescuers and attached to a cuddly toy. 

Her outlook was bleak and few thought she would survive, but a team of experts from International Animal Rescue in Costa Rica worked around the clock to nurse the primate back to health…and just look at her now.

After a year-long rehabilitation programme year-old orphan Estrellita, and her three chums Adele, Mostache, and Aleikum, have finally been released back into the wild.

It marks a stunning triumph for those battling to help these magnificent creatures thrive in an increasingly dangerous environment. 

Gavin Bruce, boss of the UK-based charity dedicated to protecting animals from suffering, said: “The successful release is testament to the dedication and expertise of our team in Costa Rica. Seeing Estrellita and her troop take their first steps back into the wild is incredibly rewarding, especially knowing the challenges they’ve overcome. 

“This release is not just about these four monkeys, it’s about giving hope to all wildlife affected by human impact. We remain committed to rescuing, rehabilitating, and rewilding these incredible animals, ensuring they have a future where they can thrive.”

High voltage dangers seriously threaten Howler monkeys in their native South and Central America. The primates play a critical role as seed dispersers and their declining population poses a serious threat to the delicate rainforest ecosystems they call home. Only 100,000 Howler monkeys remain in the wild.

Last year the Costa Rican government passed a law requiring energy providers to take wildlife protection measures before installing power lines but companies have been slow to implement.

International Animal Rescue Veterinary Director Francisco Sánchez Murillo said: “Every day, we witness the devastating impact of electrocutions. The suffering is unimaginable. The world needs to know this crisis is ongoing, and action is needed now.  

“But we are pleased to report that after a long period of rehabilitation, this troop of howler monkeys has been successfully released back into the wild in Costa Rica.  Among them Estrellita, an orphaned monkey who miraculously survived after suffering severe burns and was prized from her deceased mother following a tragic electrocution last year.”