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

Guenon monkeys make fascinating exotic pets once they reach full adulthood. In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about what to expect from a fully grown Guenon monkey.

Size at Full Growth

Guenon monkeys vary in size depending on the specific species, but in general a fully grown Guenon will be:

• Length: Around 18-24 inches from head to tail tip
• Height: 10-16 inches tall when standing on all four legs
• Weight: 2-4 pounds for females, slightly heavier for males

Some larger Guenon species like spot-nosed monkeys can reach weights up to 6 pounds at full maturity. But most stay under 5 pounds.

Appearance at Full Growth

As Guenon monkeys reach adulthood, their facial features become more defined and their fur develops more distinct coloring and patterns. Traits vary by species but may include:

• Distinctive facial markings like spots or stripes
• Vibrant fur coloring in shades of gray, brown, black, or red
• Tail that is often as long as the body length
• Dexterous hands and feet well-adapted for climbing

Fully grown Guenons communicate and signal each other using facial expressions and vibrant fur coloring that really stands out at this life stage.

Personality at Full Growth

Guenon monkeys start to develop strong, confident personalities as they mature into adulthood:

• Curious and active explorers, constantly on the move
• Bond closely with human owners but can be wary of strangers
• Assert their independence but also seek affection and reassurance
• Communicate needs clearly through vocalizations and body language
• Form close-knit social bonds with other Guenon companions

Their personalities really blossom at this stage as they gain self-assurance living as a fully grown exotic pet.

Price

Expect to pay anywhere from $3,000-$8,000 USD for a fully grown Guenon monkey, depending on rarity, health, and temperament. More desirable species from reputable breeders command higher prices.

Food/Feeding

As adults, Guenons have mature dietary needs:

• Special primate diet food - a balanced homemade mix is best
• Fresh fruits daily like bananas, oranges, berries
• Green vegetables such as kale, spinach, carrots
• Lean proteins in small amounts like boiled eggs, nuts, seeds
• Clean water available at all times in multiple locations

Feed 3-4 times daily and provide foraging/problem-solving feeders to stay active and stimulated.

Lifespan

With excellent care, Guenon monkeys can live 15-20+ years as exotic pets. In the wild their average lifespan is lower at 10-15 years due to stressors like predation and lack of vet care.

Health at Full Growth

Being fully grown, your Guenon's health needs include:

• Regular veterinary checkups every 6-12 months
• Dental care to monitor teeth and gums
• Nail trims every 1-2 months as needed
• Immunizations kept current
• Prompt medical attention if illness is suspected

Monitor weight and stools daily for any changes signaling potential issues.

Care and Nutritional Needs

Some key aspects of caring for a fully grown Guenon monkey:

• Large living space like an aviary or multi-level indoor enclosure - minimum 10'x10' floor space
• Ample vertical space for climbing with branches and platforms
• Environmental enrichment like foraging toys, puzzle feeders
• Companion such as another monkey or squirrel monkey
• Daily interactive play and exercise outside enclosure
• Organic,balanced primate diet as discussed above
• Supplements such as calcium, vitamins, and minerals

Costing

Expected ongoing monthly costs for a fully grown Guenon include:

• $150-300 on specialty primate food, produce, supplements
• $50-150 on veterinary care like medications, testing
• $100-200 on enclosure upgrades, replacements, enrichment
• $50-100 on companion and potential future vet bills
• $50-100 on your time managing daily care routines

Plan to invest at least $500/month for all needs to keep your Guenon monkey healthy as an exotic pet.

Possible Behavioral Changes

Some behaviors you may notice in your fully grown Guenon as it establishes its role in your family dynamic:

• Asserts more independence and wants to explore/forage alone periodically
• Becomes more affectionate and seeks out bonding experiences
• May get more protective/defensive of territory or companions
• Communication demands more clearly through vocal and physical cues
• Will challenge dominance less and respect your leadership role more firmly

With patience and positive reinforcement, you'll find a rhythm with your mature Guenon's evolving character.

Notable Characteristics

Here are a few standout traits of fully grown Guenon monkeys:

• Agile climbers can leap great heights and scramble up any surface
• Dexterous hands allow them to adeptly manipulate objects
• Curious, constantly in motion exploring their environment
• Communicate needs loudly through screeches, whoops and barks
• Form tight social bonds as they establish place within their family unit
• Bold, inquisitive personalities shine once confident adults

Their vibrant colors, dexterity, and spirited personalities make Guenons truly mesmerizing exotic pets at full growth.

Is a Guenon Right for You?

While captivating animals, fully grown Guenons require significant commitment as exotic pets. Carefully consider:

• Your experience caring for exotic animals
• Ability to invest daily time and hundreds monthly for care
• If your home/lifestyle is suitable for an energetic, climbing primate
• Legal status of owning a primate where you live
• Willingness to handle veterinary and potential behavioral issues

With the proper environment and lifetime commitment, Guenons can thrive as loving companion animals at adulthood. But their needs warrant serious deliberation before taking one on.