Identification and description of behaviours and domination patterns in captive vervet monkeys (Cercophitecus Aethiops Pygerythrus) during feeding time

Abstract

In the current study we explore dominant behaviours and interactive patterns during feeding of a group of captive vervet monkeys (Cercophitecus aethiops pygerythrus). Observations were carried out in a group including an adult male, an adult female, two immature individuals, and an infant, living in the Guadalajara Zoo. They were located in a confi ned area that was divided in six zones according to the proximity or distance to where the spectators are located. For the collection of behavioural data we used the Observer 5.0 and Theme 5.0 for detection and analysis of behavioural patterns. Three recordings for every day were made (i.e. Wednesday to Sunday), during feeding time, at approximately 17:30 h and each lasting 1½ h, beginning 30 min before food delivery. We registered general activities (i.e. eating, resting), as well as domination behaviours (i.e. allogrooming, agonism, direct and indirect access to food). Results indicate signifi cant differences in the use of space/proximity between female and male, as well as the proportion of general activities, although resting was the main registered behaviour. Differences by sex (i.e. male, female) and by location of the place of food delivery (i.e. inside, outside) were observed in expressed behaviours and interactive patterns. In wildlife conditions, female hierarchy usually dominates over male hierarchy, possibly because of social networks established between female relatives. However, in captivity conditions the group structure changes, modifying its function (i.e. male predominant over female). The current type of research might provide us with clues on how to improve the design of the facilities for captive animals. Future objectives of the project concern comparing the fi ndings to data collected in the wild and implementing the results into a new design of the facilities for captive vervet monkeys.