image source, Robin Joyce
The new rules are scheduled to be introduced in 2026, but some are calling for a complete ban.
The government has announced new rules for people who want to keep primates such as orangutans, chimpanzees, lemurs and monkeys.
From 2026, it will no longer be possible to keep such animals without a license.
To obtain this license, you must demonstrate that you have created an appropriate environment for the primates and are properly caring for them.
Those who don't follow the rules can be fined heavily or sent to jail.
Can I keep a primate as a pet in the UK?
image source, mark lynham
In the UK, there is a law called the Animal Welfare Act. That means people can't keep animals as pets unless they give them a safe place to stay and take care of them.
This includes primates such as monkeys and lemurs. People could keep them as pets as long as they followed the rules.
The Animal Welfare Act was introduced in 2006 and has since undergone many updates by the government.
image source, Tomasz Bobzinski (Tomansony)
How will the new rules work?
People who keep a primate as a pet need to make sure it is registered with the government. The government will also check whether the environment created for primates is sufficient.
Regulations state that primates must be kept to “zoo standards”, meaning that if they are kept as pets, they must be cared for in the same way as in UK zoos.
This means making sure they have the right food, enough space to run around, and the right temperature to keep them happy.
What do you think about keeping animals like monkeys as pets? Let us know in the comments.
