Terra Natura's paralysed monkey makes a full recovery

A SMALL monkey from Terra Natura Benidorm has overcome paralysis after undergoing rehabilitation treatment

Carmelo, a cotton-top tamarin (Saguinus oedipus) who lives in Benidorm's Terra Natura animal park has successfully recovered from the partial paralysis he suffered in both legs that prevented him from moving normally.

The recovery of this small primate, which is in danger of extinction, has been possible thanks to the non-invasive rehabilitation treatment and injections of anti-inflammatory and clot dissolving medications.

Park keepers observed a month ago that Carmelo, the male leader of the park's group of cotton-tailed tamarinds, was only able to hold on to branches with his arms. He was immediately transferred to the Terra Natura's veterinary clinic where he underwent a thorough examination.

Following an X-ray which ruled out possible bone lesions, vets decided that paralysis could be due to a clot. Carmelo was immediately treated with thrombolytics, anti-inflammatory and non-invasive rehabilislowly tation for 20 days.

To strengthen his muscles and make him climb keepers have been leaving Carmelo's favourite food - superworms which are high in protein, in elevated areas of his enclosure.

Thanks to the treatment, Carmelo has recovered the use of his legs. He has now been reintroduced back with the rest of his group to occupy the role of leader.

Carmelo arrived at Terra Natura in 2006 and has fathered three offspring since 2016 (two females born in 2016 and one male in 2018) with a female called Eva who arrived at Terra Natura Benidorm in 2015.