Primate Update E-Newsletter, Vol. 3, Issue 12, Part 3

CONTINUING EDUCATION

Special Topic: Intern Linda
Marmosets and Tamarins
Chapter 4: Making Sense out of Scents

Scent marking plays a crucial role socially and sexually in marmosets and tamarins. At PPS, we see many of the monkeys scent marking their conspecifics, food, and their environment. These chemical signals are released through urine, feces, genital discharge, saliva, and specialized glands.

The three most common markings are circumgenital, suprapubic, and sternal marking. These are named by their location and which gland the chemical is secreted from. Circumgenital marking is also known as sit rubbing and has the lowest intensity. This is performed by rubbing their genitals against the substrate and is often seen with marmosets marking their food. Suprapubic marking is also termed pull rubbing; this is very common in Cotton-top tamarins and is performed by pulling themselves forward with the hands. Lastly, sternal marking involves the primates using chest glands to mark their environment.

The monkeys here at the sanctuary are seen scent marking frequently and these chemical signals are of great importance in their lives.

-Rylands, A.B. Marmosets and Tamarins. Systematics, Behavior, and Ecology. Oxford, U.K.: Oxford University Press, 1993.


Special Topic: Intern Caroline
Complete Capuchin
Chapter 12. Erotic Artists. Sexual behavior, forms of courtship and mating.

This chapter discusses the significance of behaviors that capuchins exhibit during sexual interactions. These behaviors, such as touch and run, or an extended arm are sexual interactions exhibited amongst capuchins during foreplay. However, here at PPS, these common sexual behaviors are not often seen between the capuchins but are more likely to be displayed as a threat or warning.

- Fragaszy, D.M., Visalberghi, E., Fedigan, L.M. (2004) The Complete Capuchin: The Biology of the Genus Cebus. UK. Cambridge University Press.


Special Topic: Intern Annabel
Primate Ecology and Conservation
Current issues and new approaches in primate ecology and conservation

Studies have found that social behaviors in primates are influenced by habitat, producing differences even between the same species. This has led to numerous behavioral studies taking place in the field, in the labs, and in captivity. Such studies are essential for contributing to the explanation of patterns of social behavior observed, and for the conservation of primate populations. Conservation is vital now, as human destruction of natural ecosystems has escalated to the extent that it threatens the long-term survival of humans as well as of other animals. As primates and humans are so closely related, the same conservation strategies can be applied. Sustainable management of habitats and ecological systems can ensure the survival of many different species. Habitats need to be restored and preserved long term to ensure the stability of primate populations.

Critically Endangered Cotton Top Tamarin

The primate species that we have here face these very same problems in the wild, habit loss through deforestation. Cotton- top tamarins are listed as Critically Endangered and this is due, in part, to habitat loss. If we can find a way to protect the forests and preserve the habitats then these animals may have a chance at survival in the wild. If the rate of decline continues, soon a vast majority of species listed as ‘Endangered’ will only exist in captivity.

-Else, J.G., Lee, P.C., Primate Ecology and Conservation. Cambridge, U.K.: Cambridge University Press, 1986

“Start by doing what's necessary; then do what's possible; and suddenly you are doing the impossible.”    — St. Francis of Assisi


We hope you have enjoyed this issue of Pacific Primate Sanctuary’s E-Newsletter. Thank you for your support of our life saving work. Because of compassionate people, the Sanctuary can continue to provide a place of peace and happiness for 70 primates saved from research laboratories, animal dealers, and tourist attractions. Here they can heal, form families, and live free from exploitation.

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