Mario was just two years old when he found a new home at Jungle Friends. Rescued by authorities while roaming freely in Jacksonville, Florida, Mario had been kept illegally without a proper enclosure. While the courts determined his future, he stayed at Jungle Friends in protective custody. In Florida, monkeys can legally be kept as pets if the owner passes a specific test, obtains a license, and provides a cage—at least 6' x 8' x 6'. This is quite cramped for a creature that naturally leaps up to 20 feet and thrives high in the treetops. Fortunately, Mario's previous guardian failed to meet these requirements, and Mario was permitted to stay at the sanctuary.

Mario's zest for life is evident in his love for games and antics, often involving spirited chases and playful wrestling with his fellow monkeys. His environment is filled with toys and structures that cater to his need for physical activity and mental stimulation, but it’s clear that Mario thrives on social play the most. 

Mario found a kindred soul in Tessa, a fellow capuchin. Their delightful first encounter is captured in a video titled “Brown Capuchin Romance,” which will touch your heart! Their bond is characterized by mutual playfulness that turns even the simplest activities into exciting adventures. Watching them together, it’s easy to see how they light up each other’s lives, offering companionship that goes beyond mere coexistence to a genuine friendship.