Young capuchins are very cute and cuddly, however m ost behavioral problems occur when a juvenile capuchin reaches sexual maturity. They can become very strong and aggressive. Males grow large, dangerous canines. Pet owners can be severely injured from bites. Wild capuchins are known as destructive foragers, meaning that when they search for food they tear apart and uproot trees and plants in order to look for food.
Capuchins have a complex diet.
Most pet owners will not be able to provide their capuchins with the proper nutrition for a healthful life. Most local veternarians are not trained to take care of exotic pets like capuchin monkeys and frequently deny service to owners of these type of pets. Capuchins are long lived animals. With proper care and nutrition, they can live over 40 years in captivity. Capuchins and other nonhuman primates may carry diseases and parasites that can be transmitted to humans.