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SPThey grow so very fast… this was 3 years ago… this boy is 3x this size now and still growing… love my Winston.
People underestimate the future with spider monkeys. They are the largest of the New World species. They can reach full lengths of up to 4ft standing very tall, and weigh (when healthy) 25-30lb… with a 5-6ft tail and a 6-7ft arm span. They become very large. And VERY strong.
That’s why they need at least an 8ft tall enclosure for proper brachiation and healthy movement. Their swing can modulate between 7-10fr top to bottom when swinging and moving naturally. And because their muscular make up is mostly white tissue, they have incredible explosive strength… that is relation to us as human is 5-7x more powerful.
Too many people see the cute youngsters on social media… and buy into the lies they stay that cute and easy going. Not the case… they’re wild animals. They have strong instinct. They’re not domesticated in any form. And neutering them doesn’t change instinct and natural behaviors.
Primates have explosive emotions and react physically in those moments. That’s why they’re classified as a dangerous wild animal.
The reason you almost never see an older spider monkey in a home… and on social media… is because 80-90% give up and rehome when it gets hard. When they get bitten and hurt… or the monkey destroys their home, their social life and their marriage or relationship! Because many do not remain the cute cuddlers and demand independence and allow you to visit their world at their will. And therefor when the cute and fun wears off… people give up.
And, let’s not forget the cost… inline of not, at times more than raising a human child… and they will easily live between 30-50 years.
So, enjoy the cuteness, but remain aware of reality!
#monkey #monkeysofinstagram #spidermonkey #spartn #rescue
@spidermonkeywinston
