Non-human primates used in biomedical research and those held in sanctuaries following captive release represent distinctive welfare challenges requiring specialist care.
Primates used in research experience the welfare impacts of procedures alongside the stress of captive housing that may not meet their complex social and cognitive needs. Post-research sanctuaries face the challenge of socialising animals that may have spent years in individual housing. The welfare priority for research primates is enhancing living conditions and social opportunities while research continues, and providing appropriate retirement in sanctuaries afterwards.