14/12/2022
Types of Monkeys to Buy
Some types of monkeys are more popular as pets than others. Monkeys most frequently purchased as pets include:
Marmosets are also known as finger monkeys or pocket monkeys. They are the smallest monkeys and are only about 5 ounces when fully grown.
Tamarins are another tiny monkey that is about 1 pound when fully grown. While they are striking in appearance, they also can be aggressive.
Spider monkeys hail from South America and are very social, requiring you to either be home with them all the time or get them a monkey companion. They are cute, small monkeys that are difficult to keep in a home due to a host of behavioral issues.
Capuchins are originally from Central and South America, and are nocturnal. They are highly intelligent, but can be aggressive toward people.
Squirrel monkeys are a handful, as they love climbing and swinging as part of their natural behaviors. You will also need to keep diapers on them permanently to keep your house clean.
For statistics on these types of monkeys as well as a few others, visit the Primate Store's Choosing a Primate Guide.
The Best Monkeys to Have As Pets
In general, regardless of species, monkeys do not make good pets. They require a great deal of specialized care and constant attention because of their intelligence. If not given a proper environment to live in and mental and physical enrichment, they can quickly become aggressive and destructive. They also are difficult to house train and will need to wear diapers for their entire lifetime. Monkeys, even the smallest ones, need large cages or habitats in order to thrive, and many need to live with other monkeys or they will suffer from behavior problems due to lack of social interaction