Zoo Animals

Zoo Capuchin Monkey Social Housing

Capuchin monkeys are highly social primates requiring complex group housing for adequate welfare in captivity.

Key Facts

Wild capuchins live in groups of 6-20 individuals with complex social hierarchies
Capuchins use tools and engage in cooperative behaviour requiring social partners
Solitary capuchins in captivity develop severe behavioural abnormalities
Groups must be carefully composed to avoid chronic aggression
Capuchins are often used in medical research, where their welfare needs may be inadequately met

Welfare Considerations

Capuchin monkeys without appropriate social companions cannot express complex social behaviours central to their psychological welfare. Even in research settings, social housing for capuchins is essential. Any justification for isolating capuchins must be rigorously scrutinised against the severe welfare harm this causes.

What You Can Do

Support only facilities providing social housing for capuchin monkeys
Advocate for research regulations requiring social housing for primate subjects
Donate to sanctuaries housing capuchins retired from research