Statement re: ‘Monkey Selfie’ Case Appeals Hearing

For Immediate Release:
July 13, 2017

PETA is pleased with the robust discussion of this historic case, in which it is undisputed—even by the defendants—that the macaque Naruto made the cause-and-effect connection between pressing the shutter button and the change to his reflection in the camera lens, resulting in his now-famous selfie photographs. Copyright law is clear that under these circumstances, he should own the photos—and PETA is proud to be his voice in court. The proceeds from the use of these photos should go to protect Naruto and his family who are being wiped out for illegal bush meat and whose homelands are being destroyed by human encroachment. As we learn more about these highly intelligent, complex primates, who have their own culture and their own language and want only to be left alone and in peace, PETA believes that society has a moral imperative to advance and amend the law to recognize animals’ rights.