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Nonhuman Primates

What are Nonhuman Primates?

Nonhuman primates are mammals that belong to the biological order Primates, excluding humans. Examples include macaques, capuchins, spider monkeys, marmosets, bush babies, gibbons, lemurs, baboons, and gorillas.

Ownership Requirements

The Mississippi Board of Animal health does not require a permit for ownership of nonhuman primates in Mississippi. However, nonhuman primates imported from out-of-state require an entry permit and health certificate (CVI).

Certain primates including macaques, baboons, and chimpanzees are also regulated by the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks.

Primates and other exotic animals used for commercial purposes including for breeding and exhibition require a license from USDA APHIS Animal Care.

Import Requirements

Prohibited From Entry: All primates listed in the MDWFP inherently dangerous animals list are regulated by Mississippi Department of Wildlife Fisheries and Parks. Entry of these species is prohibited unless permitted by MDWFP.

Entry requirements for nonhuman primates:

  1. A prior permit for entry and a certificate of veterinary inspection (health certificate) with complete name and address of consignee and consignor are required for all non-human primates entering the state.
  2. Negative Tuberculosis test within 12 months. If animals are underage and have not been TB tested, they may be placed under a temporary quarantine at home until testing is performed.
  3. Negative Herpes Complex Test: All macaques (Macaca spp) shall be initially tested for Herpes B virus and, thereafter, be required only in the event of a possible exposure to the virus by humans. All medical records and results of such testing shall be maintained by the owner and made available for inspection by MBAH personnel. Any test results indicating a positive reaction to a TB test must be reported immediately to the MS Board of Animal Health, the MS State Department of Health, and the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks.

Apply for nonhuman primate import permit by clicking:

Nonhuman Primate Import Permit Application