After graduating from college this May with a degree in biological sciences, I found myself not quite sure of the next step. I was pretty sure that I needed some time off from school after my grueling undergraduate education. For as long as I can remember, I have been in love with the idea of working with primates. I started digging for my options on the internet and found an intern opening at Jungle Friends. That was two months ago and now I am lucky enough to have spent the last month and a half working at JF, the most amazing place that I have ever been.

Like many, because I have never seen a pet monkey, or known anyone who has a one, I assumed that the pet monkey trade had long-since been regulated by the government. I was astonished to find that, not only is the pet monkey trade still alive and legal in most states, it is a rapidly growing business. As many people now know, thanks to JF and similar organizations, monkey breeder’s still exist, wild monkeys are still plucked from their natural homes, and that most pet monkeys outlive their welcome in homes rather quickly. After working with Spider and Capuchin monkeys at JF, it has become increasingly apparent that monkeys are wild animals and belong in their natural habitats.

For the past few years with the help of selfless founders, volunteers, and donations from supporters, JF has been able to provide the best possible captive life for a handful of monkeys. It is a harsh reality that most unwanted pet monkeys have not been so lucky. I am honored and proud to do what I can to enrich the lives of the monkeys at JF, and to work alongside the incredible people who keep the dream alive.