Have you ever given any thought to what happens to these animals once their "career" is over? The majority of monkeys and apes you see on these shows are juveniles, which are fairly easy to train and work with. The problem arises when they mature and become adults. Unfortunately, most become unmanageable and unsafe to handle any longer, then where do they go? The situation at present is a bleak one. Zoos are no longer willing or able to take in unwanted exotics of any kind, including primates. Sanctuaries are filling up and have no room for more animals. Primates usually live for many years after they reach adulthood and this gives way for a serious situation. Labs will take some but, should these animals provide entertainment for humans at their (the primates) expense?
The ex-"movie star" population of primates keeps growing and the options for them continues to decrease. The long-term follow-up care of this sector is expensive as well. Housing has to be safe physically and emotionally. Not all primates get along with each other, same as humans. To confine them in cages has to be done carefully so as not to create dangerous situations for the individuals. Various species may not be housed together as predation may occur. Feed and medical costs are not inexpensive. And the list goes on.
The newest saga in this crisis is a controversy concerning "The Chimp Channel". While people may find the presentation entertaining and even amusing, others feel this is exploitation at its worse. Check out the following URL for more information about this particular situation:
Primates Online has received a great deal of email about the premiere of The Chimp Channel, TBS (Turner Broadcasting) new half-hour comedy hour which features chimpanzees and orangutans. In an effort to provide everyone with details we have produced a page on our site which should give you all the information you need to learn more about the show. Please see: http://www.primates-online.com/tbs.html Please contact us if you have any questions.
So, the next time you watch a show with monkeys or any other type of exotic animal, remember that the cute actions you see on the screen is not how things are in real life. That cuddly looking creature will grow up to be strong and potentially dangerous and need a lifetime of commitment. At what cost?
Go To Page: 1 2
