There are dozens of them. Kids take them out on leashes and even carry baby monkeys around in diapers. But these animals can be very dangerous indeed. Imported illegally through Spain from Gibraltar, Morocco or Algeria, the Barbary apes are known for their powerful limbs, sharp teeth and short tempers.
Veterinary experts say they can be turned into frightening and effective weapons.
Removed from their natural habitat, they can become highly aggressive. They bite, and their favored method of attack is to hurl themselves at people's heads. Police believe as many as 500 Barbary apes may have been smuggled into France in the past two years. We've heard of monkey fights being run. Police believe the monkeys escaped while being taken to the state fair in Richmond or a circus in North Carolina.