Marmoset rescued from Greenwich property after welfare concerns

A common marmoset monkey has been rescued from a property in Greenwich following concerns about its welfare. The animal was discovered living in a bird cage and was not being fed an appropriate diet. Greenwich Council, in conjunction with the City of London Corporation, investigated the situation after a report from a concerned resident.

Investigation and Rescue

Officers from Greenwich Council and the City of London Corporation visited the property. They found the marmoset in an unsuitable bird cage environment and noted it was being kept alone, which is contrary to the social nature of marmosets. The owner also lacked the required licence to keep the primate, a requirement under the Animal Welfare (Primate Licences) (England) Regulations 2024 and the Animal Welfare Act 2006.

A subsequent visit involved teams from the council and the City Corporation's licensing and animal welfare departments, alongside the RSPCA and the Metropolitan Police. The individual keeping the primate agreed to surrender the marmoset voluntarily.

Future Plans for the Monkey

The rescued monkey has been moved to a specialist facility where it will receive veterinary care. Following this, the marmoset is scheduled to be relocated to a wildlife park. This move will allow the monkey to live with other marmosets, addressing its need for social interaction.

Owner's Consequence and Public Advice

The owner of the marmoset received a warning from Greenwich Council. The council has advised residents who suspect a primate is being kept without a licence or have other animal welfare concerns to contact them by emailing licensing@royalgreenwich.gov.uk.