The Plight of Nonhuman Primates
Every year, tens of thousands of nonhuman primates are trapped in the wild or captive-bred for use by humans, only to suffer and die in miserable conditions.
Primates destined for research are packed in cramped, poorly ventilated wooden crates and shipped extremely long distances in the cargo holds of airplanes — often passenger flights. In addition to those used in research, thousands more primates are kept in chains or in small cages in roadside zoos, circuses, and in private homes as "pets," where they may languish for years and develop adverse physical as well as psychological conditions.
Born Free USA united with API works to better life for our closest living relatives in number of ways. We aim to eliminate the trade in primates for research, entertainment, and private ownership. We conduct public education about the cruelties involved with the exploitation of nonhuman primates and lobby for legislation designed to increase legal protections for primates used by the research, pet, and entertainment industries. We are urging U.S. and international airlines to place an embargo on transporting nonhuman primates, except for transfers in the animals' best interest. And we provide permanent refuge to more than 500 snow monkeys, vervets, and baboons, many of whom were rescued from private ownership, roadside zoos and traveling shows, and research institutions.
Learn More About:
- The international trade in nonhuman primates and how you can help — please see the "Primates" section of www.morebeautifulwild.com.
- The problems associated with keeping nonhuman primates (and other wild animals) as "pets" — see our Exotic "Pets" Campaign.
- The Born Free USA Primate Sanctuary and how this 186-acre facility in Texas gives rescued snow monkeys, vervets, and baboons a second chance at a more natural life.
