Marmoset Pet Trade: Small Monkeys, Large Needs

Common marmosets and other small New World monkeys are sold as exotic pets, but their complex social and cognitive needs make captivity deeply problematic for their welfare.

Key Facts

Common marmosets live in family groups of 3-15 individuals in their native South American forests
In the wild, marmosets travel several kilometers daily and spend hours foraging for insects, fruit, and tree sap
Captive marmosets frequently develop metabolic bone disease from inadequate UV-B exposure and diet
Marmosets kept as pets in the UK became so problematic that they were added to the list of animals requiring a license under the Dangerous Wild Animals Act
The British Veterinary Association and RSPCA both oppose the keeping of primates as pets

Welfare Considerations

Marmosets are social, intelligent primates that suffer profoundly in typical pet conditions. Isolation from conspecifics causes psychological distress. Metabolic bone disease from poor diet and insufficient UV-B causes painful disability. Their need to forage and explore cannot be met in typical home environments. Marmosets also live for 12-16 years, creating long-term commitment challenges. The United States currently has no federal restrictions on private primate ownership, and welfare failures are widespread.

What You Can Do

Never purchase a marmoset or other primate as a pet
Support federal and state legislation restricting private primate ownership
If you encounter a marmoset in distress, contact a primate sanctuary rather than a general animal rescue
Oppose breeders advertising marmosets as suitable house pets
Support the Primate Society of Great Britain and US equivalent organizations advocating for primate welfare