Critically Endangered Roloway Monkey Gives Birth After Life-Saving Surgery

In a remarkable development for wildlife conservation, a critically endangered roloway monkey named Masaya has given birth just months after undergoing a pioneering surgical procedure to save her foot from amputation. The surgery was performed at Chester Zoo in partnership with specialists from the University of Liverpool's Small Animal Teaching Hospital. Masaya, a 15-year-old resident of the zoo, faced serious health complications due to a golf-ball-sized mass that had developed on her foot. After extensive examinations, which included X-rays, ultrasounds, and biopsies, the veterinary team determined it was necessary to conduct a complex surgery to remove the mass while attempting to preserve as much of her foot as possible. This innovative procedure was unprecedented for a roloway monkey, yet it proved successful, enabling Masaya to retain all but one of her toes. The successful surgery allowed Masaya to regain the use of her foot, which has proven vital in her ability to care for her newborn. The arrival of her daughter, named Lagertha, marks a significant milestone for both Masaya and the critically endangered species. Primate experts at the zoo have already noted that the young monkey is exhibiting traits similar to those of her mother, showcasing an inquisitive nature and curiosity about her environment. Veterinarian Rachel Burrow, who assisted with Masaya's procedure, emphasized the importance of the operation: 'This was the last chance to save Masaya's foot before amputation. Working with such a rare species was a privilege.' She expressed her elation over the success of the surgery, highlighting how it has allowed Masaya to lead an active, comfortable life—qualities crucial for nurturing her offspring. Zoe Edwards, a primate keeper at Chester Zoo, praised Masaya's maternal instincts, noting that she is managing parenting duties with remarkable skill. Edwards also expressed relief over the outcome of the surgery, stating that any amputation could have severely affected Masaya's ability to care for Lagertha. Lagertha is Masaya's third daughter and her birth is particularly valuable given that fewer than 2,000 roloway monkeys remain in the wild, primarily due to habitat destruction and poaching in regions such as Ghana and the Ivory Coast. This critically endangered species faces an uncertain future, making the health and reproductive success of individuals like Masaya increasingly significant. The zoo is one of only two locations in the UK housing roloway monkeys, and Masaya's role in the European Endangered Species Programme underscores her importance in efforts to prevent the species from vanishing. Masaya's foot troubles had plagued her since her arrival at Chester Zoo in 2023, eventually culminating in the decision for surgery. Veterinary Officer Charlotte Bentley recounted the challenges involved in transporting her for a CT scan, underscoring the complexity of the situation. Post-surgery, Masaya has demonstrated resilience, and both she and Lagertha are now thriving together in the zoo. Visitors can catch a glimpse of Lagertha, whose name is inspired by a Viking queen, as she explores her new surroundings alongside her mother and four other monkeys in the habitat at Chester Zoo, contributing a touch of hope for a species in peril.