How to Make Feeder Toys for a Pet Marmoset or Tamarin

You probably shouldn't have a pet monkey. If you don't already have one, this article isn't for you--go away and do a lot of research before you make a decision. But if you already do, you know you need to work hard to keep it busy and entertained. One of the best ways to do this is to make it work to get its food, like it would in the wild. Since you can't plant a jungle for it to forage in, make toys like these instead.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Paper tube from inside a roll of paper towels
• Mealworms or some of your pet's usual diet in small pieces
• String

How to Make a Hanging Apple Feeder

1. Using something like a chopstick, push a hole through the center of the apple from the stem to the bottom.

2. Thread the string through the hole in the apple.

3. Punch a hole in a piece of carrot.

4. Place the piece of carrot at the bottom of the apple, thread the end of the string through the hole in the carrot, and tie the string onto the carrot. You should now have an apple that you can hang from a string.

5. Using a small knife, dig small deep holes all over the apple.

6. Place mealworms in the holes.

7. Hang the apple in your pet's cage.

How to Make a Hanging Paper Tube Feeder

8. Fold the ends of the paper tube over so they are closed.

9. Punch a hole in each folded end.

10. Tie a string through each hole.

11. Cut several holes along the top of the tube, just big enough for your monkey's hand.

12. Push mealworms or small pieces of your pet's usual diet through the holes.

13. Hang the feeder tube in your pet's cage.

Tips & Warnings

• This toy is almost entirely edible, but a whole apple may be too much for your pet to eat at once, so you may want to remove it before it's gone.
• For both of these toys, make sure the string is not long enough to cause a choking hazard. It's best if you supervise your monkey while it uses the toys, and anyway, it's fun to watch, so why wouldn't you?