What Is A Marmoset Monkey?
Marmoset Monkey Cost- Marmosets are different breeds of monkeys. There are more than 20 species and most of them are omnivores. They are often called “finger monkeys”, by laymen who do not bother to know their names.
They are a part of the biological family “ Callitrichidae”, which comprises four genera; Callithrix, Cebuella, Callibella and Mico.
They are termed “New World monkeys”, as they are mainly found in the tropical rainforests of South America.
Do Marmoset Monkeys Make Good Pets?
No.
- They are not exactly pet material as they are largely aggressive and have a knack for flinging their poop at their owners.
- They also scent mark their surroundings and require a warm climate to survive.
- They are needy animals and demand 24/7 support and affection. Putting them in cages will result in shrill outbursts and unrelenting tantrums.
- They are very quick-witted and are bound to pick up mannerisms as they age. Training them is a long time commitment as they can live up to 15-20 years.
- Marmosets are susceptible to viral pathogens that are dormant in their natural abode but may become malignant when interspecies transmission occurs.
How Much Does A Marmoset Monkey Cost?
Infant marmoset monkeys cost between $3,000 – $4,500 (depending on their specie!) Parent-raised marmoset monkeys tend to be cheaper than hand-raised marmosets. Younger/ friendlier monkeys are usually more expensive.
Getting an adult marmoset monkey is risky! They are not easy to manage and are most likely parent-trained.
The most popular species of marmoset (finger monkeys) on the market are the Common and Geoffroy Marmosets.
People tend to gravitate towards the pygmy marmoset because they are a lot smaller than the other species. They are however not available for private owners due to their being very difficult to manage.
Veterinary care for monkeys tends to cost more than standard pet care, so keep that in mind…
A marmoset monkey’s diet can cost you about $3 -$5 daily. (Marmoset monkeys must be housed with other marmosets, as human interaction is not enough.)Make that $10-$15 daily!
Just like toddlers, they are enticed by toys and sweet things and unfortunately might not get the “there’s food at home “ reference.
What Are The Pros Of Raising A Marmoset Monkey?
If you have a hole in your heart, that is the size of a finger-sized, needy, squirrel-looking monkey… a marmoset monkey is a right pet for you!
Private ownership is largely frowned upon but these new world monkeys are the sweethearts of neuro biologists.
Due to the similarities they share with other primates, they are perfect behavioural test subjects.
Their small size, rapid growth rate and social skills, are excellent traits in the eyes of neuroscientists.
Some Unique Facts About Marmoset Monkeys
- Pet marmosets should not be allowed to breed. They are currently overpopulating the pet industry.
- They are the smallest anthropoid monkeys. Weighing between 0.1kg -0.3kg
- In states like California, primates can only be possessed by professionals. (licensed people.)
- A marmoset despite its little size needs a large playground (if domesticated, a large cage will do). The cage ought to have access to direct sunlight.
- Marmosets feed on tree sap. It’s good old yoghurt for them.
- A newborn marmoset ought to be fed 2-3 hours a day, for the first 3 weeks. At 3 weeks, they may be introduced to solid food.
- The standard lifespan for reproducing female marmosets is six years.
- Marmosets need constant mental stimulation or else they get bored. Boredom induces stress in marmosets.
Conclusion
With all expenses duly observed, a marmoset monkey costs up to $7,000-$8,000 per one!
It’s like having a kid. Except this kid is capable of scrapping your face off, if you decide to be deadbeat.
They are also very needy and require utmost attention or a mate. As they are finger-sized, carrying them around won’t pose a problem.
They belong in their natural habitat alongside 12-13 family members.
If they must be owned or privately catered for, it must be in a place where it is legal to do so. It must also be done on their terms.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can you potty train a marmoset monkey?
Answer: No.
- Is it lawful to own a monkey?
Answer: It is illegal to own a monkey in 19 states. Some of the states include; New York, New Jersey, California, Connecticut, etc.
- Can an adult Marmoset Monkey kill me?
Answer: Not really. If there’s anything it will kill, it just might be your social life. Marmoset monkeys are needy and tend to viciously maintain their status in a group. It’s “bye-bye” to family vacations.
- Do marmosets make horrible pets?
Answer: Yes. They are tropical animals and need an environment with proper temperature/ space/humidity, to function. They lead better lives when housed together with family members.
