Spider Monkeys as Pets

Found in the tropical rainforests of Central and South America, as well as in regions as far north as Mexico, spider monkeys are wet forest dwellers that reach to a height of about 3 feet. These monkeys are mostly black, however, are also found in colors like red, golden, brown, buff, etc. In fact, some even have flesh colored rings surrounding their eyes and white chin whiskers. These monkeys get their name from the spider like formation they create while hanging on trees.

The muscular, tactile, prehensile tail enables spider monkeys to jump from one branch to another and almost acts like a fifth hand. Since they can hang on trees using their legs and tails, these monkeys can use their hands to collect food from trees. This star of spider like formation that these monkeys form on trees by using their hands, feet and tail to cling on to the trees gives these monkeys their name. Their endearing appearance has caused people the desire to get spider monkeys as pets. However, are spider monkeys good pets?

Keeping Spider Monkeys as Pets

Primates are intelligent animals and by no means are easy pets to keep, so let's leave the easy maintenance part. As spider monkeys grow older, they tend to become more aggressive and even end up with some disgusting habits like throwing their feces all around, masturbating, throwing food and other items all over the place. Thus, the cute, adorable monkey you once brought home may turn into a very difficult pet. Think about getting a spider monkey as a pet only if you are willing to put in a lot of extra effort, time and money. If you are ready to take the risk, then the next step to consider is learning the most about the animal before bringing the monkey home.

Check the Law
In some countries or states, the law does not permit keeping primates as pets. So before you do anything, check what the law in your region says. Also check if there is a veterinarian for primates in your vicinity. It is not possible to keep a spider monkey, if there is no primate doctor around familiar with spider monkeys. It's best not to get one.

Reputable Dealer
If the law permits it, then look for a reputable dealer. Illegal trading of primates is quite lucrative, which is why you need to make sure the dealer is trustworthy. Buying spider monkeys captured from the wild is illegal, thus, one should make sure the monkey has been born in captivity (unless you want to break the law). Make sure you are not being tricked into purchasing an illegally obtained animal.

Enclosure
If you have space problem at home, then it's best to forget about spider monkeys and opt for a gecko, etc. Spider monkey habitat in the wild comprises tall trees, where these monkeys can climb really high and jump and swing from branch to branch. If we want the monkey to be happy, we need to simulate the wild habitat in our house. A small enclosure will only frustrate the animal. Therefore, get a tall outdoor enclosure which can house trees, whereby the animal can feel at home and make use of his or her prehensile tail. If you are constructing anything inside the enclosure, make sure you use non-toxic natural materials.

Temperature and Humidity
Since spider monkeys are tropical animals, cold weather will only conduce to problems in the respiratory system of the animal. The temperature in the enclosure should be warm and provide a heated area for the monkey in the cage, where the monkey can go when he is cold. The humidity levels need to be high in winter.

Spider Monkey Diet
Spider monkeys relish on fruits and seeds. They also consume tender leaves, aerial roots, flowers and even honey. In captivity, spider monkeys are usually fed bananas, oranges, lettuce, raisins, celery, carrots, wheat bread, monkey chow, dog chow, etc.

Emotional Support
Just getting a monkey and setting up an enclosure with food supply, etc., is not enough. Spider monkeys like other monkeys need genuine affection. They want to feel loved and protected, for which you will have to spend a lot of time playing and comforting them. As the monkey reaches sexual maturity, they will become all irritable and will end up misbehaving. So, one needs to be prepared to tackle their mood swings.

Spider monkeys have a life span of 15-20 years, therefore, before getting a spider monkey as pet, prepare yourself for the long commitment you are going to make. It's a commitment for the next two decades, with no turning back. Only if you are ready, go for it. Never get impulsive and get one just because you like the idea of owning an exotic pet. It's a risk, take it or leave it!