A mischievous monkey, sporting a pink tutu, was safely returned to its owner in Jefferson County, Missouri, just hours before a winter storm descended. The Jefferson County Sheriff's Office, in a Facebook post, called the primate "Bananas."

Spotted Friday afternoon near Otto, the spider monkey had escaped from a nearby residence. Authorities swiftly responded to the situation.

The monkey's capture involved "careful negotiations and some coaxing," according to the sheriff's office. Photos posted online show a deputy successfully engaging the primate before it grasped his hand. The successful retrieval underscored the adaptability of law enforcement.

The swift action was especially timely, preempting a winter storm that brought heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures to the region on Saturday. This highlighted the officers' preparedness to handle unforeseen circumstances.