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By Staff Reporter
Tuesday, March 3, 2026 — Late Evening
A beloved internet-famous spider monkey known as Winston has been seized by authorities in Tennessee late Tuesday evening after officials determined the animal was being kept illegally as a pet — sparking a viral online backlash and raising questions about exotic animal ownership laws in the age of social media.
Winston is owned by Michael Robison, the caretaker of the spider monkey and founder of SPARTN (Small Primate Animal Rescue of TN), a small primate rescue organization based in Gainesboro, Tennessee. Robison has shared Winston’s daily life online through the TikTok account @spidermonkeywinston, where the monkey’s playful behavior has attracted hundreds of thousands of followers.
The spider monkey became widely known online for his human-like personality and expressive behavior. Videos frequently showed Winston walking upright around the house, hugging his caretaker, opening packages, and curiously exploring everyday household moments.
Supporters say Winston appeared healthy, energetic, and closely bonded with Robison — making the sudden government seizure especially shocking to many followers.
Authorities Remove Winston From Tennessee Property
According to witnesses, officials arrived at the rural Gainesboro property late Tuesday evening and informed Robison that the spider monkey could not legally be kept as a private pet under Tennessee wildlife laws.
The monkey was placed into a transport carrier and taken away, reportedly to be transferred to a licensed wildlife facility where he could receive specialized care.
A neighbor who witnessed the removal described the scene as sudden and emotional.
“One minute Winston was swinging around in his hammock like he always does,” the neighbor said. “The next thing you know, they’re carrying him away in a crate. Everyone was shocked.”
Authorities have not publicly disclosed the exact facility where Winston was taken.
The Monkey Behind the Viral Fame
Before the incident, Winston had become something of a social media celebrity.
Videos posted to his accounts often showed the spider monkey behaving in remarkably human-like ways — from walking upright across the living room floor to hugging his caretaker and reacting to daily routines around the house.
Many of Winston’s most popular videos featured him climbing across furniture, opening packages, interacting playfully with Robison, and exploring his surroundings with curiosity
Fans frequently commented on the monkey’s expressive personality and playful nature, with some videos gaining widespread attention across TikTok and other social platforms.
Why Owning a Spider Monkey Can Be Illegal in Tennessee
Wildlife officials say Winston’s removal likely falls under Tennessee’s strict exotic animal laws, which regulate the ownership of primates and other wildlife.
Under Tennessee Code Title 70, Chapter 4, exotic animals are categorized based on their potential risks and care requirements. Primates — including spider monkeys — are generally considered restricted wildlife and cannot be freely kept as household pets without proper authorization.
These laws are enforced by the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA).
Class I Wildlife Restrictions
Many primates fall into what Tennessee law describes as “Class I wildlife,” a category reserved for animals considered inherently dangerous to humans or requiring specialized care.
Animals in this category may typically only be possessed by:
- Accredited zoos
- Licensed animal exhibitors
- Research institutions
- Commercial wildlife propagators
- Private ownership is usually prohibited unless strict permits and facility standards are met.
- Permit and Documentation Requirements
- In cases where exotic wildlife ownership is allowed, individuals must:
- Obtain a state wildlife possession permit
- Provide documentation showing the animal was legally acquired
- Maintain secure enclosures and appropriate housing
- Allow inspection by wildlife authorities
- Failure to meet these requirements can lead to the animal being confiscated.
Authority to Confiscate Animals
If officials determine an exotic animal is being kept illegally, the state has the authority to:
- Seize the animal
- Transfer it to a licensed zoo, sanctuary, or rehabilitation facility
- Issue civil penalties or criminal charges
Experts say permits allowing private individuals to keep primates as pets are rarely granted due to the animals’ complex social needs and specialized care requirements.
A Growing Trend of Viral Exotic Pets
Winston’s case highlights a broader trend in which wild animals gain massive online followings through social media platforms.
Animal law experts say viral fame can sometimes blur the distinction between wildlife and pets.
“As more wild animals go viral online, people begin to view them as domesticated companions,” one wildlife policy analyst explained. “But legally they’re still classified as wildlife, and the laws around them can be very strict.”
Similar Controversy With Other Viral Animals
Winston’s situation has also drawn comparisons online to other viral wildlife cases.
One frequently mentioned example involves Mark Longo, whose social media-famous pet Peanut the Squirrel became the focus of a legal dispute over wildlife ownership.
Like Winston, Peanut gained popularity through videos showing the animal interacting closely with humans. The case sparked heated debate online about wildlife laws, animal welfare, and whether animals that appear well cared for should still fall under strict ownership regulations.
“It feels like someone just took away a family member,” one supporter wrote online.
Others argued the incident highlights the importance of enforcing wildlife laws designed to protect both animals and the public.
“Spider monkeys are wild animals,” one wildlife advocate commented. “They need specialized environments designed for their species.”
Possible Legal Fight Ahead
The seizure could potentially lead to a legal dispute.
Individuals close to Robison say he is seeking legal advice and exploring options to challenge the seizure or obtain information about Winston’s current location.
Legal experts note that high-profile cases involving viral animals can sometimes turn into complex legal battles over wildlife ownership rights.
“If the caretaker contests the seizure, this could become a notable case involving exotic animal law,” one legal analyst said.
Where Winston Is Now
As of late Tuesday evening, officials have not publicly confirmed the wildlife facility where Winston was transferred.
Supporters remain hopeful that updates will soon emerge about the monkey’s health and future placement.
For now, the fate of one of the internet’s most recognizable spider monkeys remains uncertain, while an increasingly vocal online movement continues calling for answers about what happened to Winston.
Michael Robison has not yet publicly commented on the incident. According to individuals familiar with the situation, Robison’s attorney has advised him not to make any statements while the situation remains new and authorities continue their investigation.
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