Since antiquity non-human primates were introduced in many places beyond their homeland. Insular environments, as a consequence of their ecological isolation, are typically more affected by the arrival of one or more exotic species. A preliminary survey has shown that the species introduced by humans in these environments are approx. 12. Among the best known species we find the Asian Crab-eating macaques (Macaca fascicularis) introduced in many places, such as Mauritius and some islands of Indonesia; the African (Chlorocebus sabaeus), introduced in Cabo Verde and West Indian islands; the capuchin monkeys (Sapajus apella) introduced in Margarita Island in Venezuela and the common marmoset, (Callithrix jacchus), native of the Northeast of Brazil, released in some small Islands of the Rio de Janeiro state. Different historical periods and various motivations characterized the introduction of these species. Some of these primates are today considered pests and they can damage or compete with the local fauna (e.g. the common marmoset predates an high number of bird’s nests). Others, who have lived in these ecosystems for thousand or hundred years, are today part of the trophic chains and have also important roles in the local humans’ cultures. This paper aims to discuss the symbolical and biological role of non-human primates in insular environments considered both as invaders and/or victims of humans’ exploitation. It will be compared the context of contemporary and old civilizations, the cultural and religious value of primates and their adaptation and resilience in a highly anthropic world.