05/11/2022
ALL YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT CAPUCHIN MONKEYS.
The capuchin monkeys are New World monkeys of the subfamily Cebinae. They are readily identified as the "organ grinder" monkey, and have been used in many movies and television shows. The range of capuchin monkeys includes some tropical forests in Central America and South America as far south as northern Argentina.
Lifespan: 15 – 25 years (In the wild)
Scientific name: Cebinae
Tail length: 30 – 56 cm
Gestation period: Panamanian White-faced Capuchin: 152 – 183 days, of Life
Higher classification: Cebidae
Rank: Subfamily
Infraorder: Simiiformes
AGE: In captivity a capuchin may live as long as 55 years. Capuchins in the wild live an average of 34 to 36 years.
Behavior
Capuchin Monkey Behavior and Temperament
Capuchins—considered the smartest of the New World monkeys—are diurnal (active during the day), social, and territorial. They spend most of their waking hours searching for food, urinating to mark their territory, and hanging out in trees.
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Should You Keep a Capuchin Monkey as a Pet?
Characteristics, Housing, Diet, and Other Information
By ADRIENNE KRUZER Updated on 02/23/22
Capuchin monkey
Mint Images - Norah Levine / Getty Images
IN THIS ARTICLE
Is it OK to Own a Capuchin Monkey?
Behavior and Temperament
Housing
Diet
Vet Care
Exercise
Grooming
Training
Pros & Cons
Purchasing
Similar Pets & Breeds
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Capuchin monkeys are energetic exotic animals that require enrichment and an active lifestyle—often, when raised by humans, they rarely get enough stimulation. They may be adorable as babies, but as they get older, capuchin monkeys can get bored easily, which can lead to increasingly destructive behaviors. They usually end up as incompatible pets, rendering them difficult to care for and resulting in rescue or euthanasia.
Species Overview
COMMON NAME: Capuchin monkey
SCIENTIFIC NAME: Cebinae
ADULT SIZE: 13 to 22 inches; Up to 4 pounds
LIFESPAN: An average of 15 to 25 years or up to 45
Can You Own a Pet Capuchin Monkey?
Legality
As of 2018, it is legal to own a pet capuchin monkey in North Carolina, Florida, Nevada, Ohio, Texas, Mississippi, Tennessee, Alabama, West Virginia, Indiana, Arkansas, Wyoming, North Dakota, Nebraska, and Kansas. The laws change all the time, and if you are considering getting a pet capuchin monkey, thoroughly research both your state and local laws. It's also a good idea to check on the history and legitimacy of the breeder through which you choose to obtain your animal.
Ethics
Capuchin monkeys are often surrendered as pets because they have needs most humans don't have the skills or time to fill, making it more than likely that owning one is—in most instances—unethical. However, there are always exceptions, and if you are an owner who is enthusiastic about giving your pet capuchin monkey everything it needs to thrive, it may very well be happy in your home.
Things to Consider
Before acquiring a capuchin monkey, it's important to do a great deal of research regarding their needs and requirements to ensure you can fulfill your duties as an owner. It's a good idea to try and touch base with others who have successfully cared for and owned a capuchin monkey in order to get their perspective.