Do Not keep Marmosets and Squirrel Monkeys Together (August 12, 2008) Written by Johan Mommens It is known among some of the big breeders and it's time that you know it too. Marmosets, Tamarins, or Owl monkeys cannot be put together with Squirrel Monkeys.
Why not?
Squirrel monkeys are the carrier of the herpes saimiri virus, which is deadly for marmosets, Tamarins and owl monkeys. Once they are infected, death can occur within 24 hours. A squirrel monkey who carries herpes saimiri, doesn't show any symptoms and unfortunately testing for this virus are not conclusive.
A big breeder told me once that he lost a whole colony of marmosets within a few days caused by this virus although his squirrels and marmosets were housed far from each other. The problem is that you cannot see the virus. It can be spread by handling the food, dishes or toys touched by a squirrel monkey. Just walking from one cage to the other can cause the infection already. Yes But?
When you do decide to keep both species, make sure that you keep food, dishes and toys separately. Wash your hands all the time and don't forget to disinfect your shoes when walking from your squirrel cage to your Marmoset, Tamarin or Owl monkey cage.
Conclusion.
Keep your Marmosets, Tamarins, or Owl monkeys far away from your squirrel monkeys and if possible, don't keep both species. Click here to return to the Your Articles & Stories page
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