End Private Primate Ownership in North Carolina

Join us in advocating for primate protection and ethical appreciation through education and policy.

North Carolina is one of five states with no statewide law banning the private ownership of primates.

While primates are fascinating, diverse and sometimes even cute, they are wild animals, not domesticated pets. Removing them from their natural environments often involves killing their parents, and once in captivity, their natural behaviors can become problematic while frustration grows since they don’t learn how to be primates. Many primates are endangered and thrive best in their natural habitats, not in private homes or roadside zoos.

A primate is in a structured enclosure, possibly a zoo or sanctuary. The animal is positioned on a platform made of metal mesh with a surrounding fence.
A primate is in a structured enclosure, possibly a zoo or sanctuary. The animal is positioned on a platform made of metal mesh with a surrounding fence.
Two primates with orange fur hang from wooden structures, surrounded by intricately carved stone architecture. One is holding green leaves. The setting appears to be an open enclosure, possibly in a zoo or sanctuary.
Two primates with orange fur hang from wooden structures, surrounded by intricately carved stone architecture. One is holding green leaves. The setting appears to be an open enclosure, possibly in a zoo or sanctuary.
A black-and-white primate is perched on a tree branch inside an enclosure, which appears to be at a zoo or wildlife habitat. The background has a rocky texture, and a rope hangs from the branch, suggesting the habitat is designed for climbing.
A black-and-white primate is perched on a tree branch inside an enclosure, which appears to be at a zoo or wildlife habitat. The background has a rocky texture, and a rope hangs from the branch, suggesting the habitat is designed for climbing.

Our Mission

Prime NC is a nonprofit dedicated to ending private primate ownership in North Carolina through education, advocacy and community action for ethical appreciation.

We educate citizens on why primates are unsuitable as pets, develop and promote protective legislation and provide resources for ethical primate appreciation and advocacy.

Empower Primate Advocacy

Join us in ending private primate ownership through education, advocacy and community engagement.

A primate with black fur is hanging from wooden structures inside an enclosure, gripping onto the wooden poles and ropes. The background shows a gray stone wall and metal mesh, likely indicating a zoo habitat.
A primate with black fur is hanging from wooden structures inside an enclosure, gripping onto the wooden poles and ropes. The background shows a gray stone wall and metal mesh, likely indicating a zoo habitat.
Legislation and Petitions

Stay informed about laws protecting primates and how to advocate for change.

Ethical Viewing Resources

Discover ethical spots for primate viewing and learn about global trafficking issues.

Engage and Volunteer

Find out how you can get involved and support our mission to protect primates.

Get in Touch with Us

Reach out for inquiries, support or to get involved.

A small primate with brown fur is perched on a tree branch surrounded by dense green foliage. A thick rope hangs nearby, suggesting an enclosed or artificial environment.
A small primate with brown fur is perched on a tree branch surrounded by dense green foliage. A thick rope hangs nearby, suggesting an enclosed or artificial environment.