Quite often we get calls from people asking if monkeys make good pets. Many people still have this picture in their mind. Fortunately, monkeys are no longer offered for sale in pet shops. Most people don t realize the amount of care and time a primate takes. Imagine having a human infant for the next 18 - 35 years and you can get an idea of how much care and dedication a monkey would need.
Primates are smart and require ongoing mental stimulation.
They also require a lot of room to move about. Even with the best of care and facilities, primates are still wild animals, and are not suitable as pets. Most primates historically seen in the pet trade are now endangered species, due to habitat loss and human disruption. They need our help and dedication in breeding and habitat preservation. Lisa Tate , Zookeeper More of Ask A Keeper . . .