Full Breakdown
Successful Surgery Leads to Birth of Critically Endangered Roloway Monkey
3/19/2026, 10:07:58 AM
Pioneering Surgery and Birth of Little Lagertha
Masaya, a critically endangered roloway monkey, has given birth to her third daughter, Little Lagertha, just months after undergoing a groundbreaking surgical procedure to save her foot. The 15-year-old primate was treated at the University of Liverpool’s Small Animal Teaching Hospital, where surgeons removed a golf-ball-sized mass from her foot, which had been causing her recurring problems since arriving at Chester Zoo in 2023. The surgery involved the amputation of one toe, a decision made after extensive diagnostics, including x-rays and ultrasounds, failed to identify the cause of the swelling.
Importance of Masaya to Conservation Efforts
Masaya's successful surgery and subsequent birth are significant for the conservation of roloway monkeys, a species native to West Africa and classified as critically endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). The population of roloway monkeys has drastically declined, with an estimated 80% reduction due to hunting and illegal pet trade. Chester Zoo is one of only two facilities in the UK housing these monkeys, making Masaya a vital contributor to the species' survival.
Zoe Edwards, a primate keeper at Chester Zoo, noted Masaya's exemplary parenting skills, stating, “Masaya is a very experienced mum and she’s parenting magnificently.” The birth of Little Lagertha represents a landmark moment in the zoo's efforts to protect the species, as there are only a few breeding females in European zoos.
Veterinary Insights and Challenges
The decision to operate on Masaya was made after her condition worsened in 2025, prompting a CT scan that revealed the need for surgical intervention. Charlotte Bentley, a Veterinary Officer at Chester Zoo, remarked on the unique challenges of treating such a rare animal, stating, “It’s not every day you take a monkey to vet school.” Rachel Burrow, a vet and lecturer involved in the procedure, emphasized the importance of the surgery, saying, “This was the last chance to save Masaya’s foot before amputation.”
Criticism & Opposition
While the surgery has been hailed as a success, some animal welfare advocates express concerns about the ethical implications of performing surgery on wild animals. They argue that such interventions should be carefully weighed against the potential stress and risks to the animal's well-being.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Following the scan, we decided an operation was the way forward. She’s been an absolute trooper all the way through, and I’m just glad we were able to do something for her.” — Charlotte Bentley, Veterinary Officer
- “It’s great to see the surgery was a success – she’s comfortable, active and using the limb well.” — Rachel Burrow, Vet and Lecturer
The successful birth of Little Lagertha not only marks a triumph for Masaya but also serves as a beacon of hope for the future of the roloway monkey species.
