Pet spider monkey escapes from owner — is later lured back and caught with a cup of coffee

Stop playing around!

A quick-thinking pet spider monkey caused a stir at a local fall festival in South Carolina when it escaped from its owner and was spotted darting across town until concerned locals intervened with a clever solution involving coffee.

The tiny monkey, Ava, made her escape during the annual Crappie Classic and Fall Fest in Eutawville and was quickly reported missing, prompting an intense search that included the efforts of the mayor and town clerk, as revealed by The Post and Courier.

“Our Eutawville festivals always bring something extraordinary – this year was no different!” noted a town spokesperson.

The energetic spider monkey named Ava was found hanging around a vehicle near a barbershop, and a group including town clerk Casey Hill and Mayor Brandon Weatherford worked together to rescue her.

“You could hear her calling out,” Hill recounted, adding, “Her fear was evident.”

The team tracked Ava down to the First National Bank of South Carolina, and in a moment of brilliance, Hill placed a cup of steaming coffee on the ground to distract the little primate.

The strategy worked flawlessly, as the inquisitive monkey approached the enticing aroma.

As soon as she came close, Hill stepped on the leash Ava had been wearing, keeping her from escaping again.

Eventually, Ava’s owner was contacted and the reunited duo was delighted to be together again, local authorities confirmed.

Spider monkeys are recognized for their ability to swing from branches using their incredibly long tails.

These monkeys are also considered among the 25 most endangered primates globally, according to the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS).

While not all species of spider monkeys are protected under the Endangered Species Act, they remain legal to own in South Carolina without a special permit.