Pet Monkey Ban: Thousands Face Seizure

A new law implemented on April 6, 2024, in the UK poses a significant threat to thousands of pet primate owners. An estimated 4,000 to 5,000 marmosets, capuchins, and other primates are kept in private homes across the country. The legislation mandates that owners must meet stringent 'zoo-level standards' and obtain a license to keep these animals.

Despite applications being open for a year, only three were received by local authorities in England by November. This low uptake suggests widespread non-compliance. Failure to meet the high welfare requirements, which include specific indoor and outdoor access, enclosure size, and UV light provisions, could result in fines and the confiscation of the animals.

While some primates may be rehomed to sanctuaries, those with serious health conditions could face euthanasia. The trend of keeping primates as pets has been linked to social media and celebrity influence, often leading to inadequate care, unsuitable diets, and poor living conditions. Animal welfare organizations have welcomed the legislation, emphasizing the difficulty of meeting primates' complex needs in a domestic setting.