New best friends monkey around

Spider monkeys Willie and Bonnie bonded instantly.

After each suffered the loss of a cage mate, both monkeys needed a new friend. Willie moved to Sarasota Jungle Gardens from Gatorama, in Palmdale. She and Bonnie were joined together in one cage Tuesday, May 5, after they had been placed in separate enclosures during the quarantine stage.

Many wondered if the 30-year-old females would be compatible. When Willie stretched her golden arm out to meet Bonnie’s charcoal fur, it was evident by their sounds and body language that the two would be fast friends.

To see the new furry friends, visit Sarasota Jungle Gardens, 3701 Bay Shore Road.