Most Expensive Pet Monkey

For some individuals, a dog or cat or even the odd parakeet isn’t an exotic enough pet. Those interested in more outlandish pets may turn to snakes, lion cubs or even our distant relative—the primate.

The most expensive monkey is the De Brazza’s Monkey, which has a price around $10,000. This shy creature is very good at hiding, but can be easily recognized by its orange crown, long white beard and distinctive crest. They’re native to central Africa, where they are preyed upon by large African eagles, leopards, humans and even other primates. A De Brazza’s Monkey is sixteen to twenty-five inches long and can weigh over eleven pounds.

The most expensive of all primate pets, on the other hand, is the chimpanzee. These African apes can cost over $50,000.

Before you go rushing off to buy one, though, keep in mind that primates are illegal to own as pets in 21 states. In addition, they haven’t had the benefit of centuries of domestic breeding that makes them suitable for civilian environments.