CHARLOTTE, N.C. - Authorities outside of Charlotte are encouraging residents to stay alert after a capuchin monkey was spotted roaming the area.

According to Iredell County Animal Services , the mammal is thought to belong to Zootastic Park in Troutman, and staff are working closely with the zoo to help capture and return the animal.

The department did not say how the primate was able to escape the privately-owned facility and did not report any other animals - such as giraffes, tigers, lions or sloths - to be on the loose.

Troutman is located about 30 miles north of Charlotte, along the Interstate 77 corridor.

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Recently, the monkey was spotted climbing high above the ground onto utility equipment, all whi

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