Plot Synopsis

MONKEY ISLAND is a one-hour documentary series that chronicles troops of toque macaques, tufted grey langurs, and purple-faced leaf monkeys have made their home among the crumbling ruins of ancient temples on Monkey Island, deep in the tropical forests of Sri Lanka. In this verdant jungle, abundant fruit provides ample feasts for these foragers, but even in primate paradise, trouble awaits. Follow these charismatic monkeys as they deal with unpredictable weather and struggle to raise their young in an environment where hidden forest dangers lurk around every corner. In the series opener, "A Mother's Tale," a deadly drought has hit Monkey Island, causing hardship for a troop of toque macaques. For Anna, a low-ranking member of the troop with a newborn baby in tow, the harsh conditions jeopardize her ability to feed herself and provide nourishment for her son. As kidnappers threaten to break the familial bond, can this dedicated mother beat the odds and keep her son healthy through the challenging first weeks of his life?