Buying a Monkey As a Pet

monkey

Monkeys are mammals of the order Primates, suborder Haplorrhini, infraorder Simiiformes, and are the most widely distributed group of mammals outside of Africa. Most monkeys are frugivorous (fruit-eating), while others eat both plant and meat. Some, such as proboscis monkeys, have a very strict diet and eat only unripe fruits. Like many other primate species, monkeys cannot synthesize vitamin C and must rely on a diet rich in fruits and vegetables to meet this need.

Monkeys can be found on every continent except Antarctica, and they inhabit a wide variety of habitats. They are primarily tree dwellers but can also live on the ground or in savannas. Some, such as geladas and golden monkeys, live in mountains; others, including Japanese macaques, are seasonal snow-bearers who spend winters resting in hot springs (an animal Jacuzzi).

A great deal of diversity exists within the monkey family, and it is important to research individual species before deciding whether a monkey will make a good pet. Ideally, you should get to know the monkeys you are considering for pets in person, and be sure to find a breeder or dealer with a good reputation and USDA permit number.

Many species of monkey are endangered, and if we do not take steps to protect them, they may disappear from the planet entirely. In many places, it is illegal to keep a monkey as a pet, and there are stringent laws in place to prevent people from taking monkeys out of the wild.