Help rescue a spider monkey

Thanks to your support, the wild populations of the endangered Central American spider monkeys are under the careful watch of community rangers. Forest patrols can be very effective at protecting wildlife. 

For example, for our spider monkey program in El Salvador, rangers have patrolled the forest for 433 hours, collecting valuable data as to the health of the population and also deterring hunters from pursuing these primates for the illegal pet trade. The average number of individuals per sighting rose from 6.96 (median = 6) in 2021 to 20.1 (median = 20) in 2025, reaching its highest value in 2024, with an average of 21.2 individuals per sighting. Overall, these results suggest a combination of improved field team efficiency and potential positive changes in the monitored population, as reflected by both the higher detection frequency and the increase in the size of recorded groups.

While we continue to work towards raising enough funds to renovate the enclosure for the rescued spider monkeys housed at the Mono Bayo Reserve, we support ongoing efforts to increase awareness as to the importance of the species and its forest habitat. Last month, students from the San Juan Del Sur Day School paid a visit during the school day and, while at the reserve, had the chance to observe and interact with the rescued spider monkeys, and also to hike the forest and learn about forest habitat. This allows children to gain a richer understanding of the local ecosystem and biodiversity. The students have been impacted enough by their experiences with the sanctuary that they recently made a donation to save a monkey enclosure. 

Due to the threats that the Central American spider monkey faces and the need to maintain the health and well-being of the spider monkeys housed at the Mono Bayo Reserve, we will continue this project.