Enclosures 101

When you consider an enclosure for your exotic monkey, you want an enclosure that allows maximum movement for jumping and climbing. After all the branches, sleeping accommodation and enrichment material have been placed, the monkey should still have space and room to move around freely and jump, play and hunt. Of course all enclosures should have an area that protects the monkey from the elements such as rain, wind and sun. Sun is an important part of monkey life as it provides the necessary vitamin D for health.
The photograph illustrates different types of enclosure. Pieter is standing next to a small bird cage, a larger parrot cage, a small aviary and a large enclosure. Since primates and humans are similar ask yourself which one would you be happiest in. Of course for humans because of our size the large enclosure is too small.
Now think about what cage you have in mind for your monkey. Would you honestly be happy with the small cages. No, but let’s be practical. Consider where the enclosure is to be placed and how large an enclosure can be placed there. Enclosure are expensive to buy or build. We recommend the largest enclosure your can afford. Your monkey costs a lot of money so don’t short change its quality of life by buying a cheap small cage. Too many people think a budgie styled cage is ample space. Small cages are a no no.
Monkeys are not domesticated pets. They need to be monkeys and will become depressed and ill if the cage position and size is too small.
EMT has various sizes of enclosures that are used for specific purposed. Smaller cages are used in the ICU for sick and injured moneys while larger aviaries are used for quarantined monkeys and the temporary re-homing and then there are the forever enclosures that allow monkeys to be monkeys, to form new troops, play and exercise. These enclosures are custom built to best practice standards and are 5m in height, length and width. Why so large? Monkeys are wild animals and as such need the freedom of movement and an environment that is safe, healthy and creates a happy home.
For more inform join the EMT Safe Haven Facebook group and ask the monkey experts for their advice and assistance in selecting and setting up a monkey enclosure.