Retired from the FDA’s historic nicotine studies, Oak arrived at Jungle Friends Primate Sanctuary alongside 25 other squirrel monkeys, but it didn’t take long for him to distinguish himself as a leader. Despite battling congenital rheumatoid arthritis, Oak commands the largest subset of the troop with a quiet authority that’s impossible to ignore. His trusted sidekick, Pip, is always by his side, helping him keep five rowdy squirrel monkeys in check.

Even on his tougher days, when arthritis flares up, Oak runs the show from his favorite spots—whether it’s a cozy coffee can swing or a pipe cap perch. With a subtle lift of his head and a wiggle of his ears, he communicates with his crew, managing the chaos without leaving his bed. On his good days, Oak maintains his aloof demeanor, often sending a "minion" to sample treats before accepting any himself. Equal parts commanding and enigmatic, Oak’s leadership is marked by quiet strength and a dash of charisma, making him one of the most inspiring figures in the sanctuary.