Monkey on the loose after sanctuary escape in British Columbia

May 29 (UPI) -- A Capuchin monkey is on the loose in British Columbia after escaping from its home at a privately owned exotic animal sanctuary.

Wildlife authorities said the male monkey escaped Saturday from its home at Primate Estate, the Vancouver Island sanctuary that made headlines in 2007 when a Bengal tiger named Susie escaped from her enclosure.

"Right now the chase is on to get it back to its enclosure and keep it safe," Conservation Officer Scott Norris told CHEK-TV.

"We want to keep the monkey safe and get it back to its enclosure," Norris said.

Several Lake Cowichan residents reported spotting the monkey crossing the highway during the weekend.

Sanctuary owner Jamie Bell said she and her mother have been searching nearby wooded areas for the missing primate.

Norris said the monkey is not considered dangerous, but members of the public are urged to keep their distance and call authorities if they spot it.

"At the end of the day its very low risk to the public but we want to keep the monkey safe and the public safe," Norris said.