Section for Human-Primate Interactions (SHPI)

Best Practice Guidelines for Responsible Imagery of Non-Human Primates

Photos or videos (hereafter images) can draw the attention of millions of people to primate conservation and welfare. However, if the context of the images is inappropriate, unclear, or lost, people may draw mistaken conclusions about the content. These mistaken conclusions can have unintended, negative consequences for primate welfare and conservation. The potential for the dissemination of images without appropriate context is a particular concern on social media. The guidelines are meant for those with greatest access to primates such as professional and student primatologists, conservationists, animal care staff and volunteers in zoos, rescue centres and sanctuaries, government agency employees, and tour guides as we all have a key role to play in delivering suitable messages about primates. The guidelines explain why we must reconsider our collective use of images especially close by or holding primates and provide advice on how to reduce the potential costs of primate images to primates, their welfare and conservation in and ex situ.

This document was developed by the SHPI working group for The Changing Role of Primates in Human Culture. Please see the SHPI website for all other information about this Section of the PSG.

The guidelines have been translated into multiple languages. Please click on the link below to download the Best Practice Guidelines for Responsible Images of Non-Human Primates and “No Primate Selfies” for social media.

PDFs in multiple languages are available here:

https://human-primate-interactions.org/resources/

The Section for Human-Primate Interactions (SHPI) is composed of experts from a wide range of disciplines across natural and social sciences and the humanities. Our diverse membership represents conservation NGOs, universities, and zoological institutions. All have substantial experience of human-primate interactions at the practical or academic level. The Section is organised into sub-groups focusing on: Primates in agroecosystems; Primate exploitation; Primate tourism; Primates in human culture; Urban primates.