Louie

Former Resident

With hearts full of love and loss, we remember Louie, our bright and beloved capuchin monkey, who passed away the morning of April 29, 2025, at the age of 23. Louie had recently shown signs of illness, and following a diagnostic physical exam, he was found to have metastatic lung cancer and an infection. He passed away shortly after, surrounded by his devoted caregivers.

Louie arrived at the sanctuary in 2004 after being placed for care from a private home in Virginia. From the moment he joined the capuchin group, he stood out – stout and strong, yet kind and welcoming. His large stature and confidence quickly earned him respect, but it was his playful, joyful personality that made him the heart of the group.

Over the years, Louie formed close, lasting bonds with his fellow capuchins and was a steady presence of warmth and camaraderie. He is survived by fellow capuchins Grady, Cysgo, Norman and Peanut. Though he spent time with each of them, it was clear that Cysgo held a special place in Louie’s heart and the feeling was mutual. The two were often seen grooming, resting and exploring together.

Louie loved the outdoors, often climbing to the highest perches to take in the beauty of his sanctuary home or soaking in the sunshine beside his friends. Louie was robust and healthy for the vast majority of his life – quite agile and endlessly curious. From bug-catching to climbing to racing around his enclosure, Louie was always on the move, living each day with energy and enthusiasm.

One of his more memorable habits was rubbing green onions all over his body, creating a scent all his own. While this behavior is observed in wild capuchins as a form of self-care to repel parasites and improve skin condition, Louie seemed especially proud of his pungent cologne.

In a display of remarkable strength, Louie would often lift and rearrange the large rocks that his caregivers had painstakingly placed to create a patio area in his outdoor enclosure. It was truly shocking to see him lift the rocks and toss them around engaging in his own capuchin version of interior design. Louie expressed himself with flair and energy.

His joyful squeals of excitement at the sight of his caregivers were a daily delight, an enthusiastic greeting that made every visit feel special. Louie brought life and laughter to the sanctuary, and his absence has left a silence that is deeply felt by all who knew him. We miss his voice, his brightness and sparkling eyes.

Providing Louie with the care and compassion he deserved each day for over two decades has been a true honor. We are grateful that beautiful Louie found a safe, loving home at the Primate Rescue Center, where he lived a full life surrounded by companionship, enrichment and joy.

The sanctuary is quieter without his voice and effervescent energy, but the memory of Louie – the heart of his group, the joyful greeter, the strong and gentle friend – will forever echo in the space he helped shape.

Rest well, Louie. You were deeply loved, and you will never be forgotten.