Cysgo
Former Resident
Cysgo capuchin monkey passed away in August 2025 after over 24 years living at the Primate Rescue Center. Cysgo spent his last moments surrounded by his longtime monkey companions and his loving caregivers. We were honored to care for Cysgo and witness his remarkable recovery after spending the first 9 years of his life as a “pet monkey” in a human home – an environment never suited to meet the complex social and emotional needs of a primate.
Cysgo was brought to the PRC in 2001 where he embraced sanctuary life with an open heart. His gentle nature, small stature and eagerness to engage helped him build lasting bonds and experience the social connections that every primate deserves. While he enjoyed grooming, snacking and lounging with all of his companions, he shared a particularly close friendship with Louie and was often by his side in the group’s outdoor enclosure and tunnels, both being a comforting presence to one another.
Cysgo was the most vocal in his group and always thrilled to see the caregivers throughout the day. He would call out to them with a joyful, high-pitched squeal to announce their arrival. He was the first to greet everyone in the morning and the last to say goodbye as the caregivers headed home for the night. Easygoing and full of heart, Cysgo loved exploring the outdoors, searching for treats and inspecting every new enrichment that came his way. To help him maintain a healthy weight, he received extra portions of foods rich in healthy fats and protein, which he always dove into with enthusiasm, often ending up with an adorable, food-smeared face. Though small in size, his confidence and cheerful spirit ensured he always got his share without a fuss. Cysgo was rarely seen without a soft fleece blanket in tow, which he often carried delicately by the tip of his tail as he settled onto a favorite perch for a cozy afternoon nap.
Cysgo is dearly missed by his capuchin friends and caregivers, who feel the quiet space he once filled with his bright energy and gentle presence. The sanctuary isn’t quite the same without his squeals of joy, soulful eyes, or scrunched up, sweet face. He had a warmth that radiated through every interaction with his playful spirit, a generous heart and a sense of peace that brough comfort to those around him. Cysgo will always be remembered as one of the most genuine souls to call the sanctuary home, and the light of his spirit will continue to shine in all who knew and loved him.
20+ Years of Sanctuary Club
The Primate Rescue Center rescued its first monkey, Gizmo, in 1987 and began a journey which has now spanned 34 years and given refuge to hundreds of primates along the way.
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