This often causes a change in demeanor and an increase in aggression that can pose a potential risk for human owners. While most pet monkeys resemble infant humans, they reach maturity level much faster that we do. At around age three, their demeanor will start to change and they can become more aggressive. This is when many owners abandon their pets because it starts to be too difficult and dangerous to care for them. The laws regarding owning exotic animals, such as monkeys, vary from country to country and even within different regions of the same country.
Always supervise monkeys when they are out of the enclosure as well. Primatologists note that monkeys are also innately curious creatures who learn by touching, poking, biting, and dismantling items in their environment (AWA, 2021). This investigative nature fuels their drive to dismantle parts of their living space. For statistics on these types of monkeys as well as a few others, visit the Primate Store’s Choosing a Primate Guide. Mychelle is a writer and web designer who is passionate about a wide variety of topics and enjoys sharing her knowledge with readers.
These are just a few examples of pets that are easier to own and care for than monkeys. Be sure to research the specific needs of any pet you are considering bringing home. Monkeys are omnivores, meaning they need a varied diet consisting of plants, fruits, vegetables, proteins, and vitamins to stay healthy (1). In the wild, monkeys forage for berries, seeds, leaves, buds, nuts, flowers, roots, and bark.
Some areas ban ownership completely, while others require permits or place restrictions on the types and sizes of monkeys allowed as pets. To conclude, the legality of owning a baby monkey as a pet varies depending on your specific area and the laws and regulations in place. It is important to research and understand the legal requirements, as well as the ethical and practical considerations, before considering getting a baby monkey as a pet. Owning a monkey is a significant commitment and a decision that should not be taken lightly. The exotic pet trade is largely unregulated, resulting in animal cruelty and major public health risks.
Finding a Veterinarian
Rarer exotics like uakaris or endangered primates command very high prices. More common species like macaques have seen prices decline recently as breeding outpaces demand. Tiny monkeys like marmosets and tamarins generally range from $1,500-$4,500. Medium-sized monkeys, like squirrel and capuchin monkeys, cost $3,000-$10,000 on average. If you feel that you have the ability to care for a primate and have cleared ownership with your state government, it is important to save up to be able to buy that baby monkey.
- Before deciding to take on the responsibility of caring for a baby monkey, it is essential to understand the level of commitment and dedication required to meet their needs.
- These include the habitat or enclosure, health care, as well as daily necessities your new pet will need.
- Leaving a pet monkey is not as simple as kenneling a dog when you want to go on vacation for a while.
- The smallest is the Kinda Baboon, which can grow up to 20 inches tall.
- Many primates end up abandoned or surrendered to sanctuaries once they become unmanageable.
- Bringing a baby monkey into your home as a pet can have serious negative consequences for both the primate and your own well-being.
Ensure proper research and preparation before getting one of these expert-level primates as a pet. There are other states that have passed partial bans, such as in Arizona where it is legal to own a monkey but not an ape. Indiana, Mississippi, Indiana, Tennessee, and Texas allow ownership of some species of monkeys, but not all.
Age and Health
To determine the legality of owning a baby monkey as a pet in your area, it is important to research the specific laws and regulations within your country, state, and city. This can usually be done by contacting your local wildlife agency or department of agriculture. They will be able to provide you with information on any permits or licenses that may be required, as well as any restrictions or limitations on ownership. In the United States, for example, the ownership of monkeys as pets is regulated under the Captive Wildlife Safety Act (CWSA). This federal law prohibits the interstate transport of certain species of wild animals, including primates, across state lines.
These parasites can also be transmitted to humans through contact with infected monkey feces. An infected human may be asymptomatic or develop nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and other gastro-intestinal symptoms. Horizontal space is good, but vertical space is even better for arboreal monkeys. Install climbing shelves, ropes, branches, and swings at different heights to encourage climbing and exercise. Monkeys can also pose a risk of transmitting zoonotic diseases to you, such as herpes B, which is found in macaque monkeys. It really is both an emotional and financial commitment to have a monkey as a pet.
Is It Legal to Own a Pet Monkey?
However there are ethical issues and health risks with such sources. Large primate species such as macaques, baboons, and mandrills typically sell for $7,500-$15,000 or more. Additionally, monkeys can harbor aggressive how are capital positive aspects taxed tendencies from past abuse making bites more likely. While some parasites like pinworms and whipworms rarely cause illness in the monkey host, others like Entamoeba and Giardia can lead to chronic diarrhea over time. Position heat lamps and electrical devices safely to avoid burns, shocks, or fires.
Monkeys need lots of space to climb, swing, and engage in natural behaviors. For an indoor cage or enclosure, expect to spend at least $500-2,000 upfront, with ongoing costs for bedding, toys, and cleaning supplies. Our team is made up of professional pet trainers, veterinarians, and experienced pet owners who have a wealth of knowledge and experience to share. We believe that pets are not just animals but members of the family, and we strive to provide the best possible advice and support for pet lovers.
Often times, the best way to interact closely with monkeys and support primate wellbeing is to volunteer with reputable zoos and wildlife sanctuaries instead. Check for volunteer opportunities at reputable zoos, sanctuaries, and primate rescue centers near you. Giving your time to help monkeys can be incredibly rewarding without the demanding commitment of personally owning one as a pet. Volunteering allows you to bond closely with monkeys and other animals while supporting organizations that work to protect threatened species.
As an alternative to breeders, you may want to adopt a monkey from a primate sanctuary. These nonprofit organizations provide lifetime care to rescued monkeys. Adopting from a sanctuary supports their mission and provides a home to a monkey in need. More rare and larger monkey species can cost substantially more than smaller monkeys like capuchins and tamarins. Larger apes like chimpanzees are rarely sold to private individuals, but can cost over $60,000.
Chimps in captivity can live up to 30 years or longer, depending on their state. Baboons have a characteristic, dog-like muzzle and hairless pads of skin that protrude from their backside. In the wild, they can live up to 20 years but in captivity, up to 45 years.
Challenges of Owning a Small Pet Monkey
Jungle Friends Primate Sanctuary in Florida takes in monkeys that are relinquished as pets from owners who either could not handle their care or had them illegally. The Humane Society has a list of incidents on their website of aggressive behavior of monkeys toward people, including their owners. They may not like the other people in your life, and since they tend to be aggressive as adults, you may run into biting and other unpredictable behaviors. Keeping monkeys from their natural environments, with other monkeys, can also lead to aggression. Keep in mind, monkeys are not domesticated, so their wild instincts are still intact. They can become tame, but dangerous situations may still occur due to natural behaviors.
