Against Primates As Pets

WAPCA is working with the Wildlife Division of the Forestry Commission of Ghana to combat the illegal pet trade in primates.  According to Ghana Wildlife Laws all wildlfe is proteced by law and a permit must be obtained, however any animals listed in Schedule 1 Wildlife Conservation Regulations 1971 are wholly protected by the law and cannot under any circumstances be possessed in any form.  Both mangabeys and Roloways fall under this catergory - those found holding these species will have them confiscated.  However other species such as the red patas, green monkey and spot-nosed do not receive such protection.

 

The laws are in place to protect and conserve the wildlife heritage of Ghana whch is in rapid decline due to deforestation, poaching and the illegal pet trade.

 

Keeping primates as a pet is a serious problem in Ghana and needs urgent addressing.  Often primates are kept in cruel soliatry confinement in unsuitable conditions and with owners lacking specialized knowledge of primate husbandry and diet.

 

WAPCA has the following main objectives to the campaign:

1. To find out who is holding and selling primates throughout Ghana

2. To understand the motivation behind holding and selling primates

3. To raise awareness about the wildlife laws concerning permit requirements and the animal welfare standards that need to be maintained

4. To create a database of permit holders legally holding primates 

5. To provide expert advice on husbandry and diet to those legally keeping primates as pets to improve their welfare

6. To assess captive primates and confiscate where necessary for the animal's well-being 

 

We ask the public - if you see a monkey being housed in Ghana please fill out this survey to enable us to follow up and ensure the wildlife laws and regulation are being adhered to. Alternatively use the link below. 

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