A search is under way for a missing capuchin monkey named Charlie who disappeared in Co Wicklow in recent days.
Sanctuary manager Willie Heffernan said that the 24-year-old "great tree climber" escaped from the Monkey Sanctuary Ireland in Rathdrum after he had to be moved away from female monkeys he shares an island habitat with.
Being one of 14 rescued animals, Mr Heffernan said that Charlie originally came from a laboratory and travelled to Ireland from Edinburgh University 22 years ago.
He explained that at the time, due to his young age, he was not neutered.
Now, in his maturity, he has developed an interest in the opposite sex and as a result, Mr Heffernan said, he had been "harassing" three female monkeys who are aged in their mid-sixties and located on the island next to him.
He explained that he tried to move Charlie and another monkey, but during this process Charlie "jumped ship" and escaped the enclosure, while his companion remained.
Mr Heffernan added that during a process of a number of days trying to catch Charlie, he would go off from the enclosure and return for food, but in recent days, he has not returned at all.
Missing monkey 'resembles' cat or small dog
He explained that Charlie is not a pet and is not used to human interaction.
Mr Heffernan feeds him via a pully-system, not by hand, and the only time he sees other humans is if the vet has to pay a visit.
He fears he may have made it to Avondale Forest Park, near to where the sanctuary is located.
He added that with Wicklow's greenlands stretching from Laragh to Arklow, there is plenty of woodland for the escapee monkey to be in.
In terms of his motivation to stay away from his home, Mr Heffernan said that he may be excited by the idea that Co Wicklow is full of young female monkeys, saying this was probably what he is out looking for after living on an island for 20 years.
He described Charlie as "young and fit" saying his favourite hobby is diving from tree to tree, or catching small birds, frogs or grey squirrels to eat.
As the search continues, locals in Co Wicklow who may have information on the monkeys whereabouts are asked to make contact with Mr Heffernan or the local Rathdrum Garda Station.
If they spot Charlie, who resembles a household pet like a cat or small dog, the public are advised not to approach, feed or try catch the monkey, rather call Mr Heffernan on 083 358 1276 who will operate a tranquiliser dart on the animal.
Mr Heffernan added that he is keen to get Charlie home safely.
