Early Tuesday morning, Albert Lea police officers were dispatched to investigate a “suspicious character hanging around” in the downtown area. When they arrived, they discovered the source of the report: McNugget, a spider monkey that had escaped its home and was braving the chilly Minnesota weather.
Department spokesperson Officer Jenna Collins said the monkey was cooperative after a brief “negotiation” and even joked on social media that McNugget “asked for a lawyer and a banana, in that order.” The animal was placed safely inside a patrol vehicle to warm up while officers located the owner.
Legal context for pet primates in Minnesota
Minnesota law (Statute § 346.155) prohibits private ownership of “regulated animals,” which includes all non‑human primates such as monkeys, apes, and lemurs. The statute does allow a narrow set of exceptions:
- Grandfathered ownership: Individuals who owned a primate before January 1, 2005 and registered it with local animal control may keep the animal.
- Exemptions for accredited zoos, non‑profit wildlife sanctuaries, licensed research facilities, and holders of a valid USDA dealer or exhibitor license.
Because spider monkeys can live 25 years or longer in captivity, a grandfathered pet could still be present today. Albert Lea police confirmed that McNugget’s owner met the legal requirements and that the monkey was unharmed.
Community reaction
Local residents expressed amusement and curiosity about the unusual rescue. Some noted the importance of adhering to state wildlife regulations to ensure the safety of both animals and the public.
The police department posted photos of the rescued monkey on its official Facebook page, highlighting the successful outcome and reminding citizens to report any stray wildlife promptly.
Original reporting: News Talk 1340 KROC-AM – News and Talk – Rochester News Radio — read the source article.
