Influencer sparks wildlife debate after posting monkey videos in Egypt

Influencer Rita De Crescenzo has sparked significant debate regarding the use of wild animals for social media content after posting videos of a young monkey during a stay in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt. The animal, which may belong to the species Chlorocebus sabaeus, was shown dressed and treated as a pet, leading to concerns about its welfare and developmental needs.

Experts and animal welfare organizations, including the National Animal Protection Agency (ENPA), have condemned the act. ENPA President Giusy D’Angelo described the situation as a “very serious form of mistreatment,” noting that the primate was likely separated from its mother prematurely for profit and is being fed inadequate food. The organization emphasized that wild animals are not toys for exhibition or follower growth.

While Egypt has implemented regulations to restrict the use of animals in tourist entertainment and hotels, the incident highlights the ongoing risks of wildlife exploitation in tourism and social media contexts. The premature separation of such primates can lead to significant long-term behavioral and physical consequences.