Marmoset Monkey Found In Newport Prompts RSPCA Appeal For Information
RSPCA Cymru is appealing for information, after a marmoset monkey was found in Newport on Sunday (6 November) in an extremely poor state.
The monkey was found by a member of the public on James Street, Newport. When rescued by the RSPCA, he was found to have fur missing around its belly, and small wounds on his tail.
Sadly, after being seen by an independent vet, it was also found the monkey had sustained a fractured pelvis, as well as being emaciated and very thin, and had to be put to sleep on welfare grounds. It is unclear the circumstances in which the injury was sustained.
RSPCA Cymru is eager for anyone with information to come forward, to help find the marmoset’s owner, and how the animal came to be in such a state.
Annie Janes, RSPCA animal collection officer, said:
“It is unclear the circumstances this marmoset monkey came to be found in this way in Newport, nor how his injuries were sustained, but I found this poor animal in an appalling condition and it broke my heart to see him in such a sad state.
“We are calling on anyone with information to contact the RSPCA’s inspectorate appeal line on 0300 123 8018.
“A member of the public would require no licence to keep a marmoset monkey like this, and this incident could potentially be a timely reminder as to how unsuitable these animals are as domestic pets.”
The charity continues to urge the Welsh Government to implement an outright ban on the keeping of primates as pets in Wales, highlighting that the animals’ complex needs are almost impossible to meet in a household, domestic environment.
Recent trends are a cause for concern. In 2015, the RSPCA received more calls about primates being traded or kept as pets in Wales than in any of the previous 11 years.
Martin Fidler Jones, RSPCA Cymru campaigns manager, said of the campaign:
“Primates are highly intelligent animals with complex needs that can’t be met in a home environment. However well intentioned an owner may be, they are not suitable as pets.
“We are concerned as to whether there is a growing problem in Wales of primates, like marmosets, being kept as pets. We believe the time has come for the Welsh Government to act, and want to see an outright ban on the keeping and trade of primates as pets in Wales.”
People are being urged to email their Assembly Member to highlight their support for a ban. Action can be taken here.
Spotted something? Got a story? Email News@News.Wales
