Adopting a Monkey

Monkeys are smart, observant creatures with a knack for problem solving. Their prehensile tails help them hold onto branches to reach fruits, seeds and other food items high up on trees. Their long tongues can grab insects, birds’ eggs and other hard-to-acquire foods, too.

Most monkeys are omnivores, eating a mix of fruits and nuts, leaves, flowers and some meat. Some species, like saki monkeys, can eat up to 50 different types of fruit in one day.

Some Old World monkeys, such as rhesus monkeys, live in social groups with their families and other family members. These groups, called troops, travel together during the day to find food and defend their territory. Other New World monkeys, such as capuchins and langurs, live in smaller, monogamous families that include a single adult male and female and their offspring.

Monkeys have a lot of energy and tend to get into everything. That’s why it’s important to consider the space requirements of your home before adopting a monkey. And it’s a good idea to check local and state laws to see whether keeping monkeys is legal in your area.

Some states prohibit monkeys as pets, while others allow them but have certain restrictions and requirements. Buying a monkey from a reputable breeder and asking plenty of questions is the best way to ensure that you and your new pet are happy and healthy. You can also support the work of a primate rescue center by making a donation.