Cronin said recently Monkey World had been called out to rescue a young marmoset “that was being kept in a bird cage in a flat in north London”.
“It had already been passed from one owner to another owner, it had been sold from a breeder and dealer for £5,000,” Cronin added.
She said the primates had gained great popularity as pets because of “influencers trying to become famous” on social media.
Cronin added people who thought they were specialist keepers would now be able to apply for a licence if they could “care for these animals appropriately with companionship of their own kind, indoor-outdoor enclosures, appropriate diet, veterinary care”.
“But most people aren’t able to do that, so [the legislation] will protect those animals that are out there right now that breeders and dealers are selling mostly to well-meaning people, albeit ignorant about the needs of the animal,” she said.
Cronin explained “some of Britain’s best zoos and wildlife parks, from Twycross to Marwell, were started out by private animal collectors”.
“Up until now, we’ve had to go and prove a legal case that a monkey shouldn’t be kept in a bird cage in the sitting room. There’s now legislation stating that is not allowed.
“It’s very specific and there are people out there that actually are wealthy enough and specialists enough that can keep these animals in a better way than many zoos and wildlife parks.”
A Dorset Council spokesperson said: “It is hoped, by the introduction of this legislation, where historically there was none, will mean that animal licensing inspectors and vets can ensure that these primates are cared for by suitable keepers.”