Two monkeys missing after the latest act of vandalism at Dallas Zoo

An emperor tamarin monkey is shown in this Dallas Zoo photo.

Two emperor tamarin monkeys reported missing by the Dallas Zoo today are the latest victims in a string of vandalism at the Texas zoo.

Dallas Zoo reported to police January 30, 2023, that the monkey's habitat had been intentionally compromised. The zoo noted the monkeys would likely stay near the enclosure.

A search of the zoo grounds failed to locate the two animals. The zoo posted on social media that police believe the tamarins were taken.

The missing monkeys follow several recent acts of vandalism at the zoo.

• On January 13, police determined a clouded leopard's habitat was intentionally cut and the animal temporarily escaped. It was located later the same day and safely recaptured.

• An investigation January 13-14 found that a habitat that houses langurs, a species of monkey, was tampered with. None of the animals exited the enclosure.

• On January 22, the zoo announced an endangered lappet-faced vulture was found dead. The vulture's death is considered suspicious and is being investigated.

Dallas Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums whose members meet “the highest standards in animal care and welfare and provide a fun, safe, and educational family experience,” according to the organization’s website.