Capuchin monkeys (Cebus spp.) are among the most cognitively advanced New World primates, yet they are used as tourist photo props and organ grinder companions across Latin America, South Asia, and parts of Europe and Africa. The welfare harm of these practices is severe and well-documented.
Capuchins used as tourist props or organ grinder companions experience social isolation from their species, forced proximity to humans, physical restraint through chaining, and the psychological stress of constant noise and handling by strangers. Tooth removal — performed without anaesthesia in many cases — causes chronic dental disease and inability to chew natural foods normally. Repetitive stress behaviours including rocking, spinning, and self-biting are documented in tourist prop capuchins. Rehabilitation of long-term captive capuchins is challenging: animals imprinted on humans cannot integrate into wild social groups and require lifetime sanctuary care. Prevention through awareness and regulation is the primary welfare tool.