Exotic pets, including monkeys, have become increasingly popular in recent years. While some states have laws that allow people to own monkeys, Florida is not one of them. There are several reasons why monkeys are not allowed as pets in Florida, including their potential to carry diseases, their aggressive behavior, and their need for specialized care.

Can You Have a Pet Monkey in Florida?

Potential to Carry Diseases

Monkeys can carry a variety of diseases that can be transmitted to humans, including herpes B virus, tuberculosis, and yellow fever. These diseases can be serious and even fatal, and they can be spread through bites, scratches, or contact with bodily fluids.

Aggressive Behavior

Monkeys are wild animals, and they can be unpredictable and aggressive. Even a small monkey can inflict significant injuries, and a larger monkey can be downright dangerous. Monkeys are territorial animals, and they may become aggressive if they feel threatened or if they are not given enough attention.

Need for Specialized Care

Monkeys have complex dietary needs, and they require a lot of space to move around and play. They also need to be socialized with other monkeys, and they need to be provided with enrichment activities to keep them stimulated. Providing a monkey with the care that it needs can be expensive and time-consuming.

Conclusion

For all of these reasons, it is illegal to own a monkey as a pet in Florida. If you are caught with a pet monkey, you could face fines or even jail time. If you are thinking about getting a pet, there are many other options that are both legal and safe.