Capuchin monkeys began abducting baby howler monkeys on Panama’s Jicaron island in 2022, with 5 capuchins taking 11 infants over 15 months. Researchers, including Zoe Goldsborough, first thought it was adoption—until mournful howler parents revealed the truth.

No one predicted bored young male capuchins would invent a kidnapping trend. Scientists found no predatory motive, just a strange new twist in monkey behavior. Animal behaviorists are now watching for more cross-species monkey drama—Joker’s legacy lingers in the jungle.