Non-human primates in research and zoo settings have highly complex social needs that are among the most challenging to meet in captivity — making primate social welfare one of the most important and contested areas of captive animal management.
Primate social welfare represents the front line of animal welfare science — the cognitive and social complexity of primates makes welfare failures both more severe and more visible than in many other species. Progressive zoos and research facilities have made significant advances in social housing, environmental complexity, and positive reinforcement training that reduces stress during necessary procedures. Regulatory requirements for social housing of research primates are strengthening globally, though implementation lags in some jurisdictions.