Zoo Animals

Zoo Patas Monkey Enclosure Design Welfare

Patas monkeys are the fastest running primates, requiring large enclosures with running opportunities for welfare in captivity.

Key Facts

Patas monkeys can run at speeds exceeding 55 km/h - the fastest non-human primate
Wild patas live in open savanna requiring large territories for foraging
Small enclosures cause stereotypic pacing and behavioural restriction in this active species
Mixed-sex group management requires careful monitoring of male integration

Welfare Considerations

Patas monkeys in small zoo enclosures cannot express their characteristic speed and range behaviour. Welfare requires large open spaces with running opportunities, appropriate group composition, and management respecting their social organisation. This species is often underrepresented in welfare-focused zoo planning.

What You Can Do

Support zoos investing in large, open enclosures for high-activity primates
Advocate for running space as a specific welfare requirement for patas monkeys
Learn about West African savanna conservation supporting patas monkey populations