Help Us Save Primates

Help Us Save Primates

The Captive Primate Safety Act

They’re cute, but primates don’t make good pets.

It is estimated there are more than 15,000 nonhuman primates in the U.S. currently living in unsuitable conditions such as pets or within the entertainment industry. There is no federal law to regulate the possession of primates like lemurs, capuchin monkeys, slow lorises, or even chimpanzees as personal pets. The Captive Primate Safety Act would federally prohibit the pet primate trade and protect these cognitively advanced animals.

Primates as pets are a risk to individual animal wellbeing and human health and safety, and the demand for them also increases occurrences of illegal wildlife trafficking. By voicing your support for the Captive Primate Safety Act, you can help end the use of primates as pets and performers.

Perspective

HBO’s Chimp Crazy recently shined a light on the issues surrounding the ownership of primates as pets. Lincoln Park Zoo President & CEO Megan Ross, Ph.D. shared her point of view with the Chicago Tribune:

Megan Ross: ‘Chimp Crazy’ is evidence of why primate protection is so important

Be a Voice for Primates

Sign up to join a coalition of primate protectors. We’ll provide updates on the Captive Primate Safety Act, template materials for spreading the word, and tools to contact your representatives.

Related content

chimpanzee eye

Chimp Crazy: Why Primates Should Not Be Pets

Are you watching HBO’s new documentary Chimp Crazy? So far, it showcases some human behaviors and attitudes we do not condone. But why should you care? And why do we?

Chimpanzee ‘Actors’ Find Reprieve at Lincoln Park Zoo

Eli and Susie were both trained performers, but they quickly grew too big and strong. After they were left at a roadside zoo, Lincoln Park Zoo stepped in.

A Firsthand Look at Tiger King and Private Ownership

Legislation, like the Big Cat Safety Act, has provided protections for lions and tigers. But what about primates in the U.S.?

Our Dedication to Primate Wellbeing: A History

00:00
00:00
Empty Playlist