A surprising incident unfolded for a bus driver in London on Friday as he came to the aid of a woman struggling with a pram and discovered an abandoned monkey on board. The driver, assisting a mother on the 302 bus in Kensal Rise, encountered a challenge due to a laundry bag obstructing the walkway around 11:45 am.
Upon investigating the situation, the driver heard a chirping sound emanating from the bag and was astonished to find a small marmoset inside. Without delay, he decided to halt the service and returned to the bus depot in Willesden to attend to the unexpected passenger.
Subsequently, the RSPCA was contacted, and they took custody of the marmoset to provide proper care following its bus journey. The monkey, identified as a female common marmoset, was found inside a concealed cage within the laundry bag, showing signs of stress and dehydration but was fortunately in good health after a check-up by a specialist vet.
Acknowledging the bus driver and the Metroline team for their calm and helpful response, RSPCA London chief inspector Claire Dew expressed gratitude for their assistance in tracing the individual responsible for abandoning the monkey. Investigations are ongoing to determine the circumstances leading to this incident.
It is speculated by wildlife advocates that the abandonment may be linked to recent legislation requiring licenses for keeping primates in England. The marmoset, now named ‘Oyster,’ has been relocated to a sanctuary equipped to accommodate primates, where she will soon be introduced to a male companion.
Chief Inspector Dew noted the serendipitous turn of events that led Oyster to the sanctuary, where she is adapting well and enjoying her new environment. The RSPCA urges anyone with relevant information to contact the appeal line provided.
The RSPCA continues to investigate the incident and seeks information from the public regarding the individual who boarded the bus with the laundry bag.