Full Grown Finger Monkey: Size, Appearance, Price & More

Finger monkeys, also known as pygmy marmosets, are adorable yet exotic pets. However, as with any pet, they require significant care and attention - especially once they reach full maturity.

In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about fully grown finger monkeys as pets so you can determine if they're the right choice for your lifestyle and home.

Size at Full Growth

Finger monkeys are one of the smallest monkeys in the world. However, they do continue growing throughout their lives. At full maturity, on average a finger monkey will be:

• Length (head to tail): 8-10 inches
• Height: 6-8 inches

That's only slightly larger than when they're babies and juveniles. So finger monkeys maintain their cute, pint-sized stature even into adulthood.

Weight at Full Growth

As for weight, a fully grown female finger monkey averages around 4-6 ounces. Males tend to be slightly larger at 5-8 ounces when fully matured.

Appearance at Full Growth

Appearance-wise, not much changes from youth to adulthood for finger monkeys. Their iconic features remain the same, including:

• Large eyes
• Delicate frame
• Prehensile tail used for balance
• Dainty fingers and toes
• Dense fur that comes in shades of gray or brown

One notable difference is that an adult finger monkey's fur will be more luxurious and full than a juvenile. The gray or brown tones may also darken slightly with age.

Personality at Full Growth

In terms of personality, adult finger monkeys are much like teenage monkeys in that they've hit maturity but still have playful tendencies. On the whole, expect a full-grown monkey to display the following traits:

• Affectionate - They still love bonding with their human companions.
• Curious - Will explore environments and items with interest.
• Agile - Can leap and climb swiftly when given space to play.
• Social - Crave interaction and will get lonely or anxious without company.
• Vocal - Make a variety of noises like squeaks, chatters and scolding sounds.

Some adult monkeys may act slightly more independent or territorial compared to juveniles. Overall though, personality mirrors care and handling - with quality time and affection, they remain sweet-natured.

Price

As finger monkeys are exotic pets, the price is high compared to common household pets. A fully grown female finger monkey usually costs between $6,000-$10,000 from a reputable breeder. Males are slightly more expensive at $8,000-$12,000 due to their smaller numbers in captivity.

Adopting a finger monkey as an adult will be more affordable than purchasing a baby monkey. However, expect the cost to still range from $3,000-$5,000 as the monkey has years of life left to care for.

Food/Feeding

Diet is crucial for finger monkeys to thrive. As adults, they'll eat a mix of the following foods each day:

• Commercial monkey food - The main fiber and nutrient base.
• Fresh fruit - In moderation as treats, like banana, berries and mango.
• Leafy greens - Dark leafy veggies add vitamins and minerals.
• Snacks - Small amounts of nuts, seeds or boiled eggs.

Feeding should be 2-4 times daily with 1/8 cup food portions each feeding. Fresh water should always be available. Care must be taken as obesity shortens their lifespan.

Lifespan

With excellent care, a finger monkey's average natural lifespan is 15-20 years in captivity. Some may live into their early 20s. Proper diet, stimulation and preventative healthcare often results in monkeys enjoying long, healthy lives as pets.

Health at Full Growth

Once fully mature, finger monkeys are susceptible to the same issues as monkeys of any age:

• Dental problems - Regular cleanings prevent tooth decay.
• Obesity - Overfeeding shortens lives dramatically.
• Parasites - Fecal checks and treatments as needed.
• Injuries - Safety precautions to prevent falls.
• Illnesses - Immediate vet care if showing signs of sickness.

Routine preventative care including annual exams and testing is best to catch any emerging health problems early. Finger monkeys should always see an exotic vet experienced with their needs.

Care and Nutritional Needs at Full Growth

Caring for an adult finger monkey is essentially the same effort level as a juvenile, with some minor differences:

• Housing - They can now have a larger enclosure, at least 24" x 24" x 24".
• Stimulation - Continue rotating safe toys/activities to engage them.
• Grooming - Daily burshing and weekly nail trims maintain coat and hygiene.
• Bonding - Devote quality one-on-one time together daily.
• Training - Continue positive reinforcement for any little behaviors you teach.

Nutritionally, the amounts and types of foods provided should stay consistent as well. Overall, maturity doesn't drastically alter the standards of care needed for these primates.

Costing

Here's a general estimate of ongoing costs to care for a fully grown finger monkey annually:

• Food: $2,000-$3,000 per year
• Veterinary care: $500-$1000 for yearly exams and testing
• Toys/enrichment: $100-$200 to keep them mentally stimulated
• Housing supplies: $200 on amenities like substrates and cleaning items
• Grooming supplies: $50-$100 on brushes, clippers and hygiene items

The total estimated recurring cost ranges from $2,850-$4,300 per year. Finger monkeys are an expensive, long-term commitment - but their sweet natures make it worthwhile for dedicated owners.

Possible Behavioral Changes of a Fully Grown

While finger monkeys largely retain youthful personalities into adulthood, there are a few ways behavior may differ at full maturity:

• Increased independence - Not as cuddly or clingy compared to babies.
• Displaying dominance - May try to assert authority over other pets/members of household.
• Territorial tendencies - Behaviors like nip/biting if invading perceived territory.
• Finding a mate - Possible changes if female goes into estrus or male displays breeding behaviors.
• Mood swings - Monkeys are prone to PMS-like symptoms before/during estrus periods.

Staying patient, consistent and predictable helps offset some uncommon behavioral shifts seen in adult monkeys.

Notable Characteristics of a Fully Grown

To sum up, here are the top notable qualities and characteristics of a fully grown, mature finger monkey:

• Small size - Maintains petite stature under 1 foot long.
• Dark, luxurious fur - Shades of gray or brown coat thickens.
• Social needs - Desires interactions and companionship.
• Agile movements - Remaining fast, acrobatic climbers.
• Long natural lifespan - Can live 15+ years with good care.
• High ongoing costs - Demanding annual expenses over $2,000.
• Specialized vet care - Needs experienced exotic animal vet.
• Mature personality - Exhibiting independence while retaining playfulness.
• Routine care needs - Daily bonding/grooming plus enclosure enrichment.
• Health risks - Prone to dental, obesity and injury issues requiring attentive monitoring.

While they require a dedicated commitment, fully grown finger monkeys can make wonderful exotic pets for the right home. Their little primate personalities continue to charm as they mature. Just be prepared to provide gold standard care, housing and veterinary support equivalent to the extended lifespan of 15-20 years.

Is a Fully Grown Finger Monkey Right for You?

Before deciding to adopt an adult finger monkey, carefully consider if your lifestyle is suited to the responsibilities of owning one:

• Do you have the time every day for interactions, play sessions, grooming and cleaning?
• Are you prepared to make arrangements like daycare if you travel?
• Can you meet annual expenses estimated at $2,850-$4,300+ without financial hardship?
• Is your home setup conducive to providing an enriched environment?
• Would family/roommates be fully supportive of long-term monkey care?
• Are you located near an exotic animal vet for regular visits and emergencies?

If you answer yes to all, an adult finger monkey could thrive as part of your household for many fruitful years to come. Just be ready to fully embrace the commitment as their beloved family member.

Conclusion

In closing, this article hopefully provided a thorough overview of what to expect from finger monkeys once they reach full maturity. While they remain small primates, adulthood brings both additional responsibilities as well as the joys of their enduring, playful personalities. With dedicated care, finger monkeys can enrich homes for 15 years or more.

If after consideration you feel prepared to adopt an adult monkey into your loving care, contact reputable breeders specializing in these exotic pets. Best of luck welcoming a new furry friend into your family for a long, healthy life together!