Diana monkeys are visually striking West African primates with complex social structures. Their welfare in captivity depends on appropriate group composition and enrichment.
Diana monkey welfare in captivity benefits from single-male, multi-female group structures that reflect natural social organization. All-female groups or pairs show more social tension and abnormal behavior than appropriately structured groups. Their highly reactive alarm temperament means unpredictable visitor noise, disturbance, or inappropriate enrichment items can cause chronic stress. Mixed-species exhibits that replicate their natural association with other primates can improve welfare but require careful species selection and management. Complex vertical environments and visual barriers between competing individuals are essential.