Friday, August 15, 2014


 
 Embracing Hawaiian Values at PPS
Ancient Hawaiians had an authentic and compelling way of viewing the world.  They held that:
All things are connected to one another and to the Source.
Pacific Primate Sanctuary is founded on the same worldview and we have discovered that our practices are based on many traditional Hawaiian beliefs, principles and values.
 
The Kumulipo is the Hawaiian Creation and Genealogy Chant, it tells of the beginning of our world and recites the birth order of all different life forms as they are born. The Kumulipo begins in Pō (darkness/night) before life existed, and the very first being that is created is the coral polyp, a tiny organism that is the building block for life in the sea.  The chant continues to describe the different organisms that are born, in the order they come into being, each one increasing in size and complexity.  Kānaka, or people/humankind, is the last to be born.  Kānaka is born into the same family as the sea, the land, the plants, and all the other animals.  We all come from the same Source, Pō, and therefore we are all related and connected. Since Kānaka is the last to be born, humans are the younger siblings of the ‘Aina (Land), and all other living things. As the youngest in this family, it is our kuleana (responsibility) to serve our older siblings, this refers to both the Beings created before us in the Kumulipo, as well as the other humans who came before us (our elders).  We observe, listen, respect and learn from the natural world and our ancestors, and in return, they care for us and provide for our needs. The Hawaiians consider themselves stewards of the ’Aina, this Earth, and, are responsible for caring for it, and protecting it for their children.  
 
At Pacific Primate Sanctuary, we embrace this philosophy, and believe it is our kuleana to protect and nurture the land, and care for other Beings with respect. The following beliefs and ideals are central to the Hawaiian Culture, as well as to the Sanctuary’s mission, philosophy, and practices.
 
Aloha- One of the most commonly used and most powerful words in the Hawaiian language. Aloha has several levels of meaning.  On the surface, aloha means- love, affection, compassion, mercy, charity.  When broken down, the meaning deepens (Alo—presence, front, face) + (ha=breath, or life energy)- The presence of (Divine) breath, giving aloha a spiritual context.  A further meaning of the Aloha Spirit includes:
  • Ala— Mindful Awareness of the Moment
  • Lokahi— Balance and Harmony
  • Oia’i’o— Truth, Authenticity and Honesty. Being Authentic to Yourself and Responsible to Others
  • Ha’aha’a— Being Humble.  The multiple, repeated root Ha refers to you as a Spirit Having a Human Experience.
  • Ahonui— Patient and Enduring 
Aloha guides the way Hawaiians interact with one another, the animals, the plants and the Earth itself.  It creates a feeling of mutual respect and compassion.  At Pacific Primate Sanctuary, we make every effort to “Keep the Aloha Alive”. The animals are always treated with love, respect and kindness.  As an entirely volunteer organization, every person who helps the monkeys is doing so purely out of the goodness of their heart, with no rewards or incentives other than a desire to contribute their compassionate care. This positive, selfless service is healing to the monkeys, as well as to their caregivers.

 
Pono- Harmony and balance, to do what is right, meaning upright, goodness, righteous, to correct, to set right. To work towards an enlightened and positive path in Life.
 
The most important guiding principle at PPS is to always do what is right for the animals.  We strive to rectify the wrongs, the harms they have experienced, and provide them with a home where they can live in the natural world with others of their own kind.  This is their birthright.
 
Ho’oponopono- This is a Hawaiian forgiveness and healing ritual, which can be done on one self, or between individuals.  The meaning literally is to make right, or to “set on the right path for the greater good of everyone”.  Ho’oponopono is a form of mental and emotional cleansing, which allows a person to “clear the path” or remove obstacles and burdens that hinder him/her. 
 
Traditionally this was often used to resolve family and social conflicts in Hawaiian society. It was also regularly used by healing practitioners, or Lapa’au, to remove any personal obstacles before working on a patient, in order to be in the right frame of mind to offer help.  Ho’oponopono was then done on the patient, releasing inner turmoil and pain in order to allow healing (physical, mental and emotional) to occur.  Hawaiians believed that illness was the physical manifestation of spiritual and emotional difficulties such as stress, anger, guilt, etc.  Healing must tend to all three levels- physical, emotional and spiritual to be effective.  The physical healing was the most basic level- this includes medications, application of bandages, etc.  Far more important was the emotional and spiritual healing, which Hoʻoponopono addressed.
 
The most important thing we do at PPS is to heal, using our hands, hearts and spirits! Before entering any animal care areas, the caretakers stop to center themselves and become fully present, and aligned with the animals. The practice of Ho’oponopono is central in all that we do for the primates.  
 
The physical aspect of care giving is important; we provide the monkeys with food, shelter and medical care, without which they could not live.  However, the aloha, love and intention that go into the making of the food, providing the medications, and keeping the enclosures clean is what truly heals the animals. It is vital to the wellbeing of the animals, that the people who care for them be in the right state of mind, connected to the Source and focused on the physical and emotional needs of the animals, and not on their own personal concerns or difficulties.
 
Malama ‘Aina- to care for and nurture the land so it can give back all we need to sustain life for ourselves and our future generations, to live in harmony with the land. Here at the Sanctuary, we nurture the land, growing fresh fruits and vegetables for the animals, as well as propagating plants for their enclosures. We utilize non-toxic, biodegradable cleaning supplies, reuse and recycle as much as possible. The Sanctuary minimizes the impact on our precious resources. Many of the monkeys at PPS have become endangered in their native rainforests, which are disappearing at the fastest rate in history.
 
At Pacific Primate Sanctuary, we believe that caring for the land and the animals is vital to restoring our planet and returning it to a state of equilibrium.
 
Sources:
http://www.oocities.org/~olelo/shelties/mahalo-aloha.html
http://www.kahunahaleolono.org/language.html
http://sustainablemeasures.com/Training/Indicators/Def-Hawi.html
http://www.kumukahi.org/index.php/units/ka_hikina/kumulipo


PPS SUPPORTER COMMENTS
 
We recently received the following message Nick, who sent his “pet” monkey, Macaco, to Pacific Primate Sanctuary because he wanted to give him a better life.  Macaco has now been at PPS for several years, and has learned primate vocalizations, to leap with ease in the greenery, and the skills needed to live as a monkey.  After getting an update on Macaco, along with a current photo, Nick wrote:   “He looks fantastic! Always love seeing these pictures and still think of everyone at the Sanctuary every day. Don't know what I would've done without you.”
 

WAYS YOU CAN HELP the MONKEYS at PPS
 
Donating to Pacific Primate Sanctuary can be as simple as doing an Internet search!  Visit GoodSearch.com and designate Pacific Primate Sanctuary as your charity of choice, and get started using this wonderful program.  Each time you do a search using GoodSearch, a small contribution will be made to PPS!  GoodSearch offers many other ways to generate donations for Pacific Primate Sanctuary, including GoodShopping, GoodDining, GoodTravel, GoodOffers and more.  Visit their website to find out the details: http://www.goodsearch.com/
 
Use GoodShop for all your Back To School Shopping and a portion of your purchase will be donated to PPS.
 
Give the Gift of Your Service and Volunteer Your Time
We are currently in need of more local volunteers! We need Animal Caregivers, Handy people, and Gardeners/Landscapers. Retirees are welcome. If you live on Maui and are interested in becoming one of Pacific Primate Sanctuary’s Angels, by volunteering your time and skills, please e-mail pps@pacificprimate.org
 
Our Wish List
You can contribute to the monkeys by donating much needed items, including:
- commercial power washer                                    - sewing machine
- heavy-duty weed eater                                         - construction tools                                    
- gardening supplies & equipment                          - pillowcases and baby blankets
- pet carriers                                                           - ride-on lawnmower
 
 Please contact us at pps@pacificprimate.org if you have an item you’d like to donate!

How to Donate Directly
We deeply 
appreciate your continued partnership. You, and your family and friends, can make tax-deductible donations to the Sanctuary on our Website: www.pacificprimate.org and on FaceBook, using PayPal, or by sending a check to:

Pacific Primate Sanctuary
500-A Haloa Road
 Haiku, HI 96708


Please help us provide food, medicine and supplies for the 50 monkeys at Pacific Primate Sanctuary and help us care for the Beings with whom we share the Earth.



PPS INTERNSHIP

Introducing New PPS Resident Intern, Amanda, who will be joining us on August 18th. Amanda’s animal care experience includes general husbandry of gibbons and sun bears, observational studies of elephants at the Oakland Zoo, and data collection at The Marine Science Institute. This will be her first experience caring for New World Primates, and we are eager to share our knowledge with her, so that she may work towards becoming a Primary Animal Caregiver.

In her acceptance letter, Amanda writes:
Thank you for notifying me of my selection as your resident New World Primate Caregiver/Office Assistant at Pacific Primate Sanctuary…. I am very pleased to accept.

I have a strong interest in primates, conservation, and animal behavior. This past year I worked volunteering with the Gibbon Rehabilitation Project (GRP) in Phuket and the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Center (BSBCC) in Sepilok where my responsibilities included husbandry work, environmental education, and office work.  During my time at the BSBCC I created an enrichment manual, various volunteer instructional materials, and started an enrichment competition amongst the staff, encouraging enrichment that engages the bears for a longer amount of time and provides a fun activity for staff as well.  

I have recently started volunteering for The Marine Science Institute, collecting data and returned to volunteering with the Oakland Zoo for behavioral observations. 

I have extensive office experience, primarily as an Office Manager with Johns Hopkins University’s Center for Talented Youth where I was responsible for building and maintaining the student database, bookkeeping, all registration updates for the site, training and supervising other office staff, general customer service, and a variety of other office duties that I am positive have shaped me into a strong candidate for the office portion of the internship as well. 

I am hoping to learn about new world primates and the running of a primate sanctuary in a rigorous, in-depth program.  I find what I know about your sanctuary’s work to be inspiring and l would really like to contribute.


Mahalo Nui Loa (Thank you very much!) to Erin B. for all that she accomplished during her 6 weeks as a homecoming “Intern”, and for helping to restore the Sanctuary to a superior level of operation. The current Interns care for the monkeys and the facility with a high level of commitment, enthusiasm, and skill, which can clearly be attributed to the training they received from Erin B. The PPS Interns’ attention to detail, understanding of the animals’ needs, and expertise in enclosure set up, reflect Erin’s standards, knowledge, and dedication. Team PPS will carry that forward!  She also taught PPS operations manager, Erin O. proper microscope use, and how to evaluate samples for diagnosis, a skill that will be greatly beneficial to the animals in our care.  It was a joy and blessing to have Erin B. back at PPS and she will always have an open invitation to return to PPS!

Erin B. writes:
A huge Mahalo to the entire Pacific Primate Sanctuary, Inc. Ohana! The last 6 weeks have been so amazing; words cannot fully express my gratitude! Mahalo to Lucy for inviting me, treating me like a member of the family, and for being the rock that keeps the Sanctuary on solid ground. To Erin O for retraining me, working with me to return the Sanctuary to it's former beauty, and keeping the monkeys' well being as a priority. It was fun remembering the old days! To Terese who became a fast friend and my means to my beach sanctuary, for creating that beautiful garden that I spent many hours in, and her dedication to the well being of the monkeys. To the new Interns Kia and Kenzie, Mahalo for allowing me to be the crazy monkey lady that I am and taking the time to do this beautiful, sometimes very dirty, work. Take care of my kids and embrace every moment of your time here. Breathe in all of the knowledge and experience and carry it with you throughout your life. To Kaitlin for coming back for the summer and bringing all of your experience to help out the 'new girls'. To all of the other volunteers, Mahalo for all that you do for the monkeys. You are all in my thoughts; I miss you already! A Hui Ho! (Until we meet again)


Welcome to PPS supporting Intern, Caley, who will be volunteering full time until December.  Caley has worked with a large variety of animals, and has participated in Internships and volunteer opportunities at numerous facilities including the Honolulu Zoo, Monterey Bay Aquarium, and Sea Life Park. In the fall, she will be entering her second year as a student enrolled in the new Veterinary Technician program at Windward Community College, on Oahu. She is dedicated to caring for animals, and eager to learn more about the care and husbandry of New World primates.  As a short-term Intern, Caley will participate in training in the first two modules of our Internship Program, which include animal and facility care and emergency care procedures.

Caley writes: I am currently a vet tech student at Windward Community College. I am happy to say that I will be joining you soon as an Intern primate caregiver/ office assistant from June to the middle of August. It is a short internship due to the fact that I have to go back to school. I hope in this short time to learn as much as possible in primate care, record keeping and any other functions needed to help out with the Sanctuary. I hope to take this knowledge back to further my education making me a well rounded animal caregiver of exotic animals most notably primates, so that I will be able to handle a variety of care giving situations. I look forward to meeting everyone soon and hopefully it will be an exciting and educational experience. 

We are happy to have Caley on Team PPS!
                                                                                      

The PPS Resident Internship Would Not Be Possible Without The Support Of Our Compassionate Donors. Funding for this essential program is needed in order to provide housing, utilities, and supplies for our 2014- 2015 Resident Interns.

To find out how you can contribute to Pacific Primate Sanctuary’s Internship Program, please email us at: pps@pacificprimate.org
or Donate now at http://pacificprimate.org/help.htm


CONTINUING EDUCATION
 
Special Topic: Intern Kenzie
The Complete Capuchin: The Biology of the Genus Cebus
Chapter 2: Behavioral Ecology

Many behavioral researchers have studied the behavior ecology of the Capuchin.  A significant number of these studies deal with the use of their immediate resources in relation to their feeding habits.

The term "destructive feeder" has been coined to describe the eating habits of the genus Cebus.  This description is due to their propensity for using their resources to pound apart tough food items such as hard nuts, tough fruits, and also break through bark to forage for insects, small invertebrates, and even some smaller mammals.   This active foraging behavior is called "combinatorial" because it combines an object (potential food item) with a substrate.  These vigorous actions of combining the food items with a harder surface are considered a signature feature of capuchins' foraging activity.

This very behavior can been seen demonstrated by both of the resident capuchins, Miracle and Prospero.  When Miracle and Prospero are given a citrus fruit for grooming, often times they will hurl the fruit from a higher area of the enclosure to the ground in order to release the oils in the rind that are essential in their grooming as insect repellent.  Another common sight is the action of banging the fruit against a hard surface to achieve this same feat.  Many times, when given harder nuts such as almonds, they will find many ways of cracking them open using surfaces and other substrates.  After the food items are successfully broken in to, the capuchins use dexterous actions to extract the desired, or softer food items.




Special Topic: Intern Kia
Marmosets and Tamarins – Systematics, Behavior and Ecology
Chapter 2 – A vocal taxonomy of the callitrichids

Callitrichids have a wide range of different vocalizations. One common vocalization is the long call. The long call can be used in many different contexts such as: to defend a group against intruders of the same species, to maintain cohesion within a group, to make contact with an animal separated from the group, and possibly to attract a mate.

When monkeys in the Corridor or the Extension at the Sanctuary start to make noise, it is important to understand who is making the vocalization and why. In some cases knowing the differences in vocalizations between species can quickly help you narrow down the individual(s) making the calls.

The long calls of the saddleback tamarin (such as Galatea at PPS) have much shorter syllables than the long calls of the marmosets. The calls all stay within the same frequency range (6.0-10.0kHz) and show extensive frequency modulation.
                                                   
Cotton top tamarins have long calls that consist of two or three very long syllables that have little or no frequency modulation (1.1-1.3 kHz).

For marmosets the durations of individual syllables are quite short (100-200msec). They make many different high-pitched calls (5.5-9.0kHz). The most common call that will be heard when marmosets are alarmed is called a ‘Tsik’. When there is an upset in the Corridor or Extension relating to marmosets it is common to here rapid fire tsik/mobbing call as all the individuals engage in the sending a warning call.


Listen to captive housed White tufted eared marmoset vocalizations: http://www.marmosetcare.com/understanding-behaviour/calls.html




 

`A`ohe lokomaika`i i nele i ke pâna`i
No kind deed has ever lacked its reward.





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 over 50 primates saved from research laboratories, animal dealers, and tourist attractions. Here they can heal, form social groups, and live free from exploitation.

Friday, April 11, 2014

Primate Update 3-14



COSMETIC TESTING
Approximately 26 million animals are used every year in the United States for scientific and commercial testing.  Animals live in windowless laboratories, and are subjected to a battery of tests, including having chemicals placed in their eyes or on their skin, and being forced to ingest or inhale chemicals to assess toxicity.  We have provided refuge to many animals born in research laboratories, and have seen first hand the pain and suffering inflicted upon them. Animal Defenders has a very enlightening video on YouTube regarding primate research.  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fg-uetBwGho#t=579

While many people have been led to believe that animal testing is mainly focused on the scientific and health industries, the reality is that 94% of all animal testing in the U.S. is done to determine the safety of cosmetics and household products.  In contrast, the European Union banned the testing of finished cosmetic products on animals in 2004, Israel did the same in 2007 and India did so in 2013.

There are many companies out there that do NOT utilize animal testing for their products.  LUSH fresh handmade cosmetics, a supporter of PPS, is one of those companies, and they have initiated a world wide campaign, Fighting Animal Testing, to spread awareness (see link below).  As part of their campaign, LUSH did a series of live demonstrations in stores across the world with performance artists depicting animals undergoing cosmetic testing. Their video makes a moving and strong statement; it can be viewed here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f4K9iSyj_lk

On March 5, 2014 Representative James Moran introduced the Humane Cosmetics Act (H.R. 4148), to phase out the sale of cosmetics tested on animals.  Please contact your state Representative to let him/her know that you support H.R. 4148! http://www.opencongress.org/bill/hr4148-113/show

Sources:
http://www.fightinganimaltesting.com/the-lush-campaign/different-testing-policies/
http://animal-testing.procon.org/
http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/03/11/us-eu-cosmetics-testing-idUSBRE92A0M820130311

Malama Ola the Monkeys
Caring for the Health and Wellbeing of the Monkeys
One of the most important aspects of our work at Pacific Primate Sanctuary is monitoring the health of the monkeys.  Much of our primate population is elderly, and several individuals require extra care due to geriatric illness. This specialized care is based on the symptoms the monkey is presenting, and may include medications, individualized diets, stabilized branches, ramps and walkways, heat lamps, indoor housing, and extra bedding.

Spotlight on Leticia, a13-year-old Cotton Top Tamarin.  Leticia was diagnosed with an enlarged heart and pulmonary edema in 2012.  She receives several medications and supplements to help with the symptoms of her disease, including Benazepril, Salix, CoQ10, and Hawthorn Berry. Prior to starting these medications, Leticia had mobility problems, weight loss, weakness and lethargy, but fortunately, the medications manage her disease very well.  To ensure that Leticia stays safe, we have created a jungle walkway that runs the full length of her enclosure.  She also has thick, stable branches throughout the enclosure.  To keep her weight up, Leticia receives extra high calorie foods every day.
Please help us continue to provide Leticia, and the other elderly primates at Pacific Primate Sanctuary, with the necessary nutrition and essential medication!
 
WAYS YOU CAN HELP the MONKEYS at PPS

 
Donating to Pacific Primate Sanctuary can be as simple as doing an Internet search!  Visit GoodSearch.com and designate Pacific Primate Sanctuary as your charity of choice, and get started using this wonderful program.  Each time you do a search using GoodSearch, a small contribution will be made to PPS!  GoodSearch offers many other ways to generate donations for Pacific Primate Sanctuary, including GoodShopping, GoodDining, GoodTravel, GoodOffers and more.  Visit their website to find out the details: http://www.goodsearch.com/

Give the Gift of Your Service and Volunteer Your Time
We are currently in need of more local volunteers! We need Animal Caregivers, Handy people, and Gardeners/Landscapers. Retirees are welcome. If you live on Maui and are interested in becoming one of Pacific Primate Sanctuary’s Angels, by volunteering your time and skills, please e-mail pps@pacificprimate.org

Our Wish List
You can contribute to the monkeys by donating much needed items, including:
- commercial power washer                                    - sewing machine
- heavy-duty weed eater                                         - construction tools                            - gardening supplies & equipment                          -pillowcases and baby blankets
- pet carriers                                                            - ride-on lawnmower

 Please contact us at pps@aloha.net if you have an item you’d like to donate!

How to Donate Directly
We deeply appreciate your continued partnership. You, and your family and friends, can make tax-deductible donations to the Sanctuary on our Website: www.pacificprimate.org and on FaceBook, using PayPal, or by sending a check to:
Pacific Primate Sanctuary
500-A Haloa Road
 Haiku, HI 96708
 
Your support is instrumental in providing for the monkeys’ basic needs and contributing to their wellbeing. May you experience the inherent happiness in helping the Beings with whom we share the Earth.



Malama Aina, Malama Kanaka
Take care of the land and the land will take care of you!

Reduce Palm Oil Use
Palm oil is currently the one of the leading causes of deforestation worldwide! The majority of palm oil is grown in the tropical countries of Indonesia and Malaysia, where palm oil plantations under active cultivation cover 16 million acres, an area similar in size to West Virginia, and this area is expanding.   We can all help stop this destruction from spreading by making the choice to avoid purchasing products with palm oil. Unfortunately, this is no easy task, because palm oil can be found in so many different products.  The El Paso Zoo has launched a Mobile App to help people make better choices about their purchases!

The El Paso Zoo presents: “The Palm Oil Guide and Scanner”. Find out what products contain palm oil and how to find alternative products without palm oil. From hand lotion to cosmetics and cookies – and even some “healthy” and organic items – palm oil is used in a variety of products we purchase every day, but the true cost of palm oil is the destruction of tropical forests. Oil palm plantations are expanding around the world as they clear rainforests to make way for larger and new palm production operations. Join the international boycott against products that contain palm oil and purchase similar products that do not contain palm oil. The choices you make every day will help decrease the demand for products that contain palm oil and help increase demand for products from responsible companies. Encourage companies that use palm oil to use alternative oils or palm oil that comes 100% from sustainable plantations that have agreed not to destroy wildlife habitats. Make the right choice today and help protect millions of wildlife and plant species like elephants, tigers, orangutans and countless other rainforest animals. 

This scanner is designed to help you make better choices at the store when you purchase food and cosmetic products that might contain palm oil. The choices you make are critical to the survival millions of plants and animals, global efforts to protect biodiversity, the health of the ecosystem and the quality of life for people everywhere.


Sponsored by the El Paso Zoological Society
Get the App here:  http://palmoilapp.com/
Quoted from https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/palm-oil-guide-and-scanner/id682085035?mt=8


PPS INTERNSHIP

Sustainability Internship
Terese, a member of the PPS Advisory Board, is working towards a degree in sustainability at the University of Hawaii Maui Campus, She selected PPS for her required 3 credit Internship, focusing on efficiency through sustainability, while supporting the Sanctuary’s continued efforts to protect, preserve, and rehabilitate endangered primates. Terese is the first Sustainability Intern, but this will be an on-going opportunity for local students. Interns will be supported by senior staff during the internship, and will benefit from their mentorship and exposure to endangered species care and conservation, making this a mutually beneficial association.

Terese has made great progress in putting in a huge vegetable and herb garden next to the animal’s enclosures, as well as setting up composting bins (made out of old wooden pallets) at 3 locations around the facility to make use of the wheelbarrows full of plant material, leftover feed, and unusable fruit & vegetable waste left over from the donations we bring in twice weekly.  Terese is furthering a Sustainability Volunteer Program: recruiting and doing intake and orientation for two new volunteers who will provide invaluable help with gardening and horticulture. She has been working tirelessly and is creating long lasting, innovative, self sustaining systems, as well as providing inspiration and support to our nonprofit organization!  Terese has also been researching the installation of solar panels at the Sanctuary to reduce the exorbitant electricity bills we have been paying (averaging over $1,000 a month!). Switching to solar energy will initially cost about $12, 000, (we may be able to get a $1,000 rebate from the Hawaii Energy Commission). This would lower the Sanctuary’s electric bills for years to come. We are beginning a sustainability campaign, asking our supporters to become part of the PPS Solar System by donating any amount towards a solar energy system for PPS.  


After the PPS Resident Internship… Where Are They Now?

Since leaving PPS, Edie has been working at C.A.R.E Centre for Animal Rehabilitation and Education Sanctuary at Ba-Phalaborwa South Africa in the Kruger National Preserve as the Rehabilitation Phase One Supervisor for Orphaned Baboons.  Orphans are rescued, raised and released back into the wild at age four into troops that have been forged over their time livingat the sanctuary. Orphans that arrive at the center, have seen their parents poached and killed and the babies are often found clinging to their mothers. Once there, they are bottle fed and nurtured like any infant. There are a total of 700 baboons in all at the center including adults from the research industry. The sanctuary is on the Olifant River and is teemingwith elephants, giraffes, lions, hippos, leopards, crocodiles, impala, wild baboons and monkeys, to name a few, who move through the sanctuary property. Although very busy in her new role, and there on a three year visa, she thinks about the Pacific Primate monkeys often and with great fondness.  Edie writes-

"I truly enjoyed my time at PPS. Coming from a zoo background, it was my first experience and involvement with the world of sanctuaries, which broadened my outlook, philosophy and perspective on animal conservation. It was an unforgettable experience I will never forget and I feel so grateful that I had the opportunity to work at PPS, the relationships I built and the unforgettable memories and attachments I made with those very special charges, each unique in personality. My life was enriched and touched by all I experienced this past year including the magical setting of island life. Thank you again to Pacific Primate Sanctuary and everyone who touched my life.  I will never forget my time there."


CONTINUING EDUCATION

Special Topic: Katie
Journal Article Summary: “Reliably signaling a startling husbandry event improves welfare of zoo-housed capuchins (Sapajus apella).”
Animals housed in any captive setting are affected by all observed actions of their human caregivers, even those actions that may not be directed toward the animals themselves.  Therefore, as caretakers, it is important to consider how those dependent upon us respond to our behavior in order to minimize stress and nurture their wellbeing.

Findings from behavioral research suggest that predictability and familiarity are key factors in determining how husbandry events (such as cleaning enclosures, feeding, providing veterinary care, etc.) will impact animals’ perception of and response to these activities. Typically, the more able an animal is to predict any stimuli, the less stress he or she will exhibit in response. Control or choice in their exposure to stimuli helps to increase predictability, and presumably therefore increases animals’ sense of security and ability to prepare for situational changes. In captivity, where animals have little or no control over events occurring around their enclosures, awareness of this idea is vital to maintaining a healthy, calm environment.

Predictability can be altered in two ways: temporally (i.e. by adhering stimuli to a fixed time schedule) or through association with a unique signal. In the second scenario (signaled predictability), a cue, such as a distinct sound, is given just prior to the occurrence of a specific event. Through classical conditioning, animals can learn to associate this cue or signal with the activity it precedes, and thereby expect and prepare for an event before it occurs. This association will be strongest and most effective if signals are consistent and easily distinguishable from other sights or sounds the animals might observe. Although performing husbandry activities at predictable times of day helps to reduce stress indicators, reliable signaling is even more effective and allows more scheduling flexibility!       

In their study, authors Rimpley and Buchanan-Smith measured changes in the stress-behaviors of 12 captive brown capuchin monkeys (Sapajus apella) before and after introducing a reliable signal to a common husbandry event. Their chosen monkeys lived at a zoo where food was given at the same time each day when zoo keepers entered their enclosures through a series of doors, some of which also lead to nearby enclosures or corridors. Rimpley and Buchanan-Smith spent a full day observing the capuchins’ behaviors to determine a “baseline” behavioral repertoire and typical sources of stress. In order to determine how the sound of doors opening and closing affected the monkeys, the researchers recorded indications of stress five minutes before and five minutes after each door could be heard. They found that, although only 30% of audible door movements actually preceded enclosure entry, the capuchins responded similarly each time they heard a door. The sound of the doors had become an unreliable signal for the capuchins, causing them to sometimes incorrectly expect food (which caused anxiety if food was not delivered) or a stressful husbandry event (such as loud repair work, veterinary examinations, etc.). Signs of stress included self-scratching, threat faces, branch shaking, urine washing, vigilance (i.e. discrete and direct staring toward a particular individual, such as through the corners their eyes while their heads were turned) and jerky motions. The keepers then began knocking clearly only before opening a door to enter the capuchin enclosure for two weeks to allow the monkeys to associate knocking with enclosure entry. After this period, Rimpley and Buchanan-Smith again observed and recorded indications of stress. They found a high frequency of stress behavior following the sound of doors prior to the introduction of knocking, and a very dramatic decrease after implementing the signal! According to the Safety-Signaling Hypothesis, when a signal is reliably paired with an upsetting or startling stimulus, the absence of that signal will assure animals that a situation will remain safe.

It is important to note that in the absence of reliable signaling, animals may associate certain people, sights, or sounds that were previously observed near an unpleasant event with feelings of anxiety (that is, that person or stimulus may unwittingly become an unreliable signal, thereby causing stress). Depending on the animal and the event, a negative association may be established after only one upsetting event, causing long-term stress of the animal each time he or she observes the caregiver or “signal” originally paired with the upsetting stimulus. Equally important is the need to be sure to ascertain the specific purpose and value of new signals before creating them. Once a signal is established and an animal relies upon it to predict certain events, this must be maintained consistently; a suddenly change or discontinuation can result in severe stress to intelligent animals such as monkeys.  Also, in order for a signal to be effective in stress reduction, close observation must be performed to accurately determine whether stress behaviors are truly in response to specific events or stimuli.

Here at PPS, reliable signaling could help our monkeys predict and prepare for otherwise potentially startling events such as power-washing, enclosure entry, or noisy work on special projects, as well as positive stimuli such as feeding and (tasty) medication! If this were to be implemented, careful preparation would need to be conducted to ensure the efficacy of any new signals, and these signals would then need to be performed by each team member throughout the years to come.

-“Reliably signaling a startling husbandry event improves welfare of zoo-housed capuchins (Sapajus apella).” Kristina Rimpley, Hanna Buchanan-Smith. Applied Animal Behaviour Science 147 (2013) 205-213.


Special Topic, Intern Shani: Hemochromatosis
Hemachromatosis (or iron storage disease) is a genetic disorder that causes the body to absorb too much iron from food and store it in the body’s tissues and organs. This disease occurs in many primate species including callitrichids. Hepatic hemosiderosis (an overload of iron in the liver) is one of the most common postmortem findings in captive callitrichid species.

The excess iron can be stored in the liver, heart, and pancreas. The excess iron poisons the organs and can cause life-threatening conditions.  Iron deposits in the pancreas can decrease insulin production and cause diabetes mellitus. Iron stored in the pancreas can also cause pancreatic cancer. Iron deposits in the heart muscle can cause heart enlargement, heart arrhythmias and heart failure. Iron stored in the liver causes liver cirrhosis, liver cancer and failure. This disease is virtually undetectable in its earlier stages unless a blood test or liver biopsy is done. Signs of hemachromotosis include lethargy, muscle weakness, weight loss and abdominal and joint pain.

There are two types of iron: heme iron and non-heme iron. Heme iron comes from meat products and is absorbed directly into the body. Non-heme iron can only be absorbed into the body in the presence of vitamin c. Here at PPS the majority of the fruits we feed the monkeys are high in Vitamin C, so we try to limit their iron consumption. We are also experimenting with products that inhibit non-heme iron absorption. There have been several studies showing that tannins are likely to reduce iron absorption by 65%. So far we have not had any luck getting the monkeys to drink peppermint tea or eat leaves! Some studies have shown soy protein and calcium may help to decrease iron levels. We have had more luck feeding the monkeys soy protein, and they enjoy tofu, edamame and soy yogurt! We are continuing to research new ways to reduce the amount of iron the marmosets and tamarins consume.

References:
Dr. Cathy Johnson Delaney, DVM
www.hemochromatosis.org
www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/hemochromatosis
emedicine.medscape.com/article/177216-overview


 


Human beings are a part of the animal kingdom, not apart from it. The separation of "us" and "them" creates a false picture and is responsible for much suffering. It is part of the in-group/out-group mentality that leads to human oppression of the weak by the strong as in ethic, religious, political, and social conflicts.”
 —Marc Bekoff, Animals Matter: A Biologist Explains Why We Should Treat Animals with Compassion and Respect



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 over 50 primates saved from research laboratories, animal dealers, and tourist attractions. Here they can heal, form social groups, and live free from exploitation.http://pacificprimate.org/help.htm

Thursday, March 6, 2014

Primate Update 1/14


Share your love with the monkeys at PPS this Valentine’s Day!

Malama Ola the Monkeys
Caring for the Health and Wellbeing of the Monkeys

Providing appropriate medical care is vital to the wellbeing of the monkeys at Pacific Primate Sanctuary.  As the primate population ages, individuals experience additional, chronic health problems. About 1/5th of the animals at PPS, currently require regular veterinary care, medications, and supplements to ensure their specific health concerns are being addressed. We also must customize their living environments to accommodate mobility issues and to provide them with extra warmth and protection.

Echo, an 18-year-old cotton top tamarin, is the oldest tamarin living at Pacific Primate Sanctuary.  Echo was born in a research laboratory, but thankfully, she came to the Sanctuary where she could recover from the traumas she suffered.  Her advanced age has taken a toll on her health, and she is currently on many different medications and supplements.
Intern Shani recently created a description of animals with geriatric and/or chronic health problems, along with their current treatment plans for the staff.  Following is an explanation of Echo’s specialized care:  She has neurological problems that cause visible tremors throughout her body. She is on Acetyl-L -Carnitine and Methyl B 12 to counter act these- they coat the nerves and help with better nerve transmission. Echo also has arthritis, which makes it difficult and painful for her to walk. To help with this she is on fish oil and Metacam to help with the pain. She is on Pepcid to help protect her gastrointestinal tract from irritants. Additionally, Echo has a condition called colitis that causes her to have loose and bloody stool. She is on Tylan and Slippery Elm to help keep her stool firm. Echo is also given Sam-e and Milk Thistle, which serve to protect her liver. 

 Echo’s mobility is extremely poor due to the arthritis and tremors. She lives in a specially designed double portable, with ramps, walkways and protective walls to prevent her from falling. She loves to spend time on the upper shelf in her portable, and watches all the happenings in the corridor from this vantage point. She has a difficult time maintaining her body heat, so she is brought into the warm infirmary overnight and always has access to a heat lamp.

Your support helps to keep Echo and the other monkeys warm, comfortable, and pain free! 

The increased expenditures related to our geriatric monkeys have put an enormous strain on our limited budget.

Please help us provide veterinary care, medications, high calorie foods, warm bedding, and heat lamps for the aging monkeys who require specialized care.  
 

OTHER WAYS YOU CAN HELP the MONKEYS at PPS
 
Donating to Pacific Primate Sanctuary can be as simple as doing an Internet search!  Visit GoodSearch.com and designate Pacific Primate Sanctuary as your charity of choice, and get started using this wonderful program.  Each time you do a search using GoodSearch, a small contribution will be made to PPS!  GoodSearch offers many other ways to generate donations for Pacific Primate Sanctuary, including GoodShopping, GoodDining, GoodTravel, GoodOffers and more.  Visit their website to find out the details: http://www.goodsearch.com/

GoodOffers currently has many wonderful offers for Valentine’s Day!  Find the perfect gift for your loved ones, and support PPS at the same time! 
http://www.goodsearch.com/goodoffers
 
Give the Gift of Your Service and Volunteer Your Time
We are currently in need of more local volunteers! We need Animal Caregivers, Handy people, and Gardeners/Landscapers. Retirees are welcome. If you live on Maui and are interested in becoming one of Pacific Primate Sanctuary’s Angels, by volunteering your time and skills, please e-mail 
pps@pacificprimate.org


Our Wish List
You can contribute to the monkeys by donating much needed items, including:
- commercial power washer                                    - sewing machine
- heavy-duty weed eater                                             - construction tools                                   
- gardening supplies & equipment                                    - pillowcases and baby blankets
- pet carriers                                                               - ride-on lawnmower

 Please contact us at 
pps@aloha.net if you have an item you’d like to donate!

How to Donate Directly
We deeply appreciate your continued partnership. You, and your family and friends, can make tax-deductible donations to the Sanctuary on our Website: 
www.pacificprimate.org and on FaceBook, using PayPal, or by sending a check to:
 
Pacific Primate Sanctuary
500-A Haloa Road
 Haiku, HI 96708
 
Your support is instrumental in providing for the monkeys’ basic needs and contributing to their wellbeing. May you experience the inherent happiness in helping the Beings with whom we share the Earth.
 
 
PPS INTERNSHIP
Interns at the Sanctuary

The resident Internship program at Pacific Primate Sanctuary began in 2004. We have had 30 Interns over the past 9 years and the training curriculum has deepened and expanded over time.  This mutually beneficial program has provided a unique and valuable learning experience for the Interns and advanced their career goals, and has allowed us to staff the facility and provide a high level of care to the fragile animals here
 
Over the past year, we have been privileged to work with some truly remarkable Interns! Edie, Rachel, Shani and Katie each came to PPS from varied and unique backgrounds, including research, veterinary clinics, rescue organizations, and zoos.

They have contributed their insights, expertise, have done independent research, and created new procedures and protocol for the PPS Manuals. For example, Intern Rachel provided a document describing the specific vocalizations of species at the Sanctuary, allowing us to have a better understanding of the monkeys’ communication and providing the Staff with a vocabulary to describe our observations.

PPS Interns also contributed Operant Conditioning techniques, which have become a part of our care protocol. We have been syringe training the monkeys, making it easier to medicate them without distress. We also used operant conditioning to weigh individuals who used to be afraid of the scale! The cleaning and disinfecting protocols at the Sanctuary have also been improved over the last year, thanks to the research done by our Resident Interns.  We are so grateful to the Interns who have volunteered their time, energy and skills to Pacific Primate Sanctuary; their dedication allows us to keep our good work going!

The Internship program would not be possible without the support of compassionate donors.  Funding for this essential program is needed in order to provide housing, utilities, and supplies for our Resident Interns for 2014.  To support Pacific Primate Sanctuary’s Internship Program, please donate now: http://pacificprimate.org/help.htm
 

Welcome to our New Intern, Madeline

Madeline arrived on January 12, 2014 to begin her one-year Resident Internship!   Madeline has spent over two years working with primates as a caregiver and enrichment technician at a research laboratory, where she learned to provide food, enrichment, medications and emergency care.  She also spent time working at wildlife rehabilitation center in Minnesota with a variety of small mammals.  We are very happy to have her here at PPS!

Farewell Intern Rachel
Rachel completed her one-year Resident Internship at PPS on January 5th, and is now at the Shedd Aquarium as a marine animal intern.  Rachel’s positive, warm and caring approach made it a joy to work with her over the past year. We are so grateful for the valuable contributions and selfless service that Rachel has donated to Pacific Primate Sanctuary. She will be greatly missed.

R
achel’s Farewell:
Looking back on the year here on Maui, it seems to have gone by so quickly. But it has been remarkable how that short time has profoundly shaped my life and consciousness. I am incredibly grateful to the 56 monkeys who have touched my life through this experience, and though it is now over, I will never stop smiling because it happened. 
These special monkeys have each reached out and grabbed my heart with their individuality, personality, and story. Each and every one will often be in my thoughts. There is nothing equal to seeing tamarin faces peering at you from sleeping cubes during last checks, or marmosets twittering their happiness at having a favorite treat.  I feel privileged to have been in all of their lives. The amount of memorable, unforgettable moments is astounding…

For those future interns, you will have to opportunity here to care for some of the most amazing animals on the planet who will make you smile and be grateful to be here… 
And you will leave being a better citizen of the world!
 

CONTINUING EDUCATION

Special Topic: Intern Rachel
A Discussion of Colitis
     
Callitrichids are especially prone to developing colitis and other bowel diseases. Colitis refers to an inflammation of the colon and rectum. There are many types of colitis that are usually classified by the cause, or etiology, of the inflammation though this often is hard to determine. The broadest characterization is Inflammatory Bowel Disease, or IBD. Ulcerative colitis is a kind of IBD that affects only the innermost lining of the large intestine and rectum. It is a chronic disease in which the lining of the colon becomes inflamed and develops ulcers that can produce pus and mucous. The combination of inflammation and ulceration can cause abdominal discomfort and frequent emptying of the colon along with weight loss and loose stool.
        
Ulcerative colitis is the result of an autoimmune disease in which the body has an abnormal immune response and attacks elements of the digestive system. Normally, the cells and proteins that make up the immune system protect the body from infection. With IBD however the immune system mistakes food, bacteria, and other materials in the intestine for foreign substances. When this happens, the body sends white blood cells into the lining of the intestines, where they produce chronic inflammation and ulcerations.
       
Treatments for ulcerative colitis have two main goals: achieving and then maintaining remission. Treatment is therefore aimed at controlling ongoing inflammation. Antibiotics are frequently used, even though no specific infections have been indentified as the cause of the symptoms. Antibiotics can help to control the symptoms by reducing intestinal bacteria and by suppressing the intestine’s immune system. Antibiotics can be used as long-term therapies as long as the medications remain effective. Clinical trials have not shown that antibiotics are particularly effective in treating severe ulcerative colitis, according to CCFA.

At PPS, Tylan is the most common antibiotic used to treat colitis for the long-term. Metronidazole and Ciprofloxacin are also used and both are broad-spectrum antibiotics that, by definition, fight a wide range of bacteria. Metronidazole is the most extensively studied antibiotic in IBD. As a primary therapy for active Crohn's disease (which affects the entire GI tract), Metronidazole has been shown to be equal to Sulfasalazine especially when the illness affects the colon, as in colitis. Corticosteroids, such as Prednisone, can also be used to suppress the immune system and can be used to treat moderate to severe colitis. These drugs do not target specific parts of the immune system but suppress the entire immune response and shouldn’t be used as maintenance due to possibly significant short and long-term side effects. Immunomodulators can also be used in cases where corticosteroids are the only medications that have been effective.
In Cotton top tamarins, the development of colitis is most often a precursor to colon cancer, which 35% of captive Cotton top Tamarins develop (Clapp & Henke, 1993). The only way to make an irrevocable diagnosis of colitis, is through biopsy and colonoscopy of the intestinal tissue. Colitis is often associated with Marmoset Wasting Syndrome. Marmoset Wasting is clinically characterized by rapid and persistent weight loss with muscle atrophy (decrease of muscle mass). Anemia (low red blood cell count) and hypoproteinemia (low protein levels in the blood) with associated edema commonly occur (Richter, 1984). Alopecia (hair loss) is often observed, especially on the tail. Weakness or paralysis of the hind legs, intermittent diarrhea and a wet or greasy appearance to the fur may be seen (Potkay, 1992). Sporadic cases of Marmoset Wasting in colonies are likely the result of colitis or chronic metabolic illness. There is still much to learn about colitis and, as it affects many of the monkeys here at PPS, frequent investigation of new publications and research is important.

-Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America (CCFA): http://www.ccfa.org/assets/pdfs/antibiotics.pdf
-Clapp, N.K., Ed., A PRIMATE MODEL FOR THE STUDY OF COLITIS AND COLONIC CANCER-THE COTTON-TOP TAMARIN (SAGUINUS OEDIPUS). U.S.A., CRC Press, 1993.
-Richter, C.B. Biology and diseases of Callitrichidae. In: LABORATORY ANIMAL MEDICINE. J.G. Fox; B.J. Cohen; F.M. Loew, ed. Florida, Academic Press, 1984.
-Potkay, S. Diseases of the Callitrichidae: A review. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL PRIMATOLOGY 21:189-236,1992.
 

 

Special Topic: Intern Katie
Ch.9: Social interaction, social relationships and the social system of spider monkeys. From Spider Monkeys: Behavior, Ecology, and Evolution of the Genus Ateles. Ed. By Christina J. Campbell

Wild spider monkeys (Ateles) live in highly fluid and varied groups consisting of multiple members of either sex (though daily activity is often sex-segregated).  They exhibit a fission-fusion social dynamic, meaning group size and structure may change freely depending on social and environmental pressures (e.g. food availability). Within each community, individuals form smaller subgroups with which to forage, travel, and defend their territory against neighboring groups. This behavior is adaptive for the highly frugivorous Ateles, who specialize in large ripe fruit, to cope with spatially and temporally patchy food sources. Many species with similar diets experience a high degree of intergroup competition and unidirectional aggression and dominance hierarchies, as access to ripe fruit is highly limited and may be monopolized by the most assertive individuals. However, practicing fission-fusion allows Ateles to avoid such sources of stress. By traveling in large groups in times of abundance and breaking into smaller groups when fruit is scarce, spider monkeys economize time and energy costs and minimize competition, thereby reducing tension and maintaining social cohesion.  This strategy is risky for species vulnerable to predation, as fission-fusion minimizes the protection provided by large groups. However, as relatively large, arboreal primates, spider monkeys face minimal predation risk and are able to adjust their behavior primarily in terms of food availability.

Social behavior varies significantly between female and male spider monkeys. Females typically leave their natal groups upon reaching sexual maturity to join new groups, partly in order to gain access to unrelated potential mates. It follows that females experience less substantial social bonds with group members as adults; they do not share the long histories and kinship ties that males develop after remaining in the communities in which they were born. Wild females are less likely to participate in common Ateles affiliative behaviors, such as grooming, embracing, and pectoral sniffing.  (Pectoral sniffing is a sign of affection that may serve to resolve conflict, alleviate tension after new members join a group, or as a gesture between individuals who reunite after being separated.
       
Although captive females exhibit more of these habits than their wild counterparts, it is most likely in either environment that females do so toward their young offspring. Unlike males, who associate quite closely with one another as adults, females’ strongest bonds are often with their young. They occasionally groom other adults, most often males. Wild females commonly travel alone or only with their offspring, especially in times of ripe fruit scarcity. When foraging in a subgroup, females generally do so in smaller groups than those of males, as carrying infants necessitates slower movement and higher energy costs. Larger groups must travel more rapidly in order to visit enough food sources to accommodate all individuals. (Ateles typically travel as quickly as possible between fruit trees rather than feeding continuously on found fruit during casual travel.) In this context, spider monkeys’ practice of fission-fusion also allows for more flexibility in meeting the differing needs of either sex and to their reproductive success.

Males, conversely, utilize the long-term relationships gained through philopatry (i.e. remaining in one’s natal group after reaching adulthood) for various cooperative and competitive ends. In fact, male-male bonds represent the strongest social relationship following that between mothers and their young. Males tend to occupy larger day-ranges and to travel in larger groups. The group as a whole benefits from larger male subgroups and cooperative bonds; rather than carrying for infants, males patrol and defend their population’s territory, and defend access to fertile females and food sources both within and between communities.  As the more socially expressive sex, males often exhibit friendly behaviors toward one another, and the tension alleviated via fluid group structure makes aggression uncommon. However, they engage in potentially lethal violence toward new male immigrants, making leaving one’s natal group extremely dangerous. Likewise, it is rare for adult males to be successfully integrated into new family groups in captive settings. Younger males may gain the tolerance of unfamiliar adults through a behavior called grappling, in which the submissive animal repeatedly approaches then retreats, each time rapidly embracing, tail-wrapping, face-touching, or manipulating the other’s genitals. However, fully mature males are rarely accepted into new communities in captivity or the wild.

Male and female interactions may involve aggressive chasing (as is common when females are menstruating, possibly as a form of sexual coercion or posturing), and are most likely to groom one another in times of fruit abundance. As a species exhibiting little sexual dimorphism, individual spider monkeys rarely monopolize access to mates; both sexes are granted multiple potential mates within their group. While males typically prefer the company of one another, little evidence suggests that females prefer the company of either sex in terms of friendly social interactions. In adulthood, the strongest male-female bonds are expressed by mothers and their adult sons.

Pacific Primate Sanctuary’s two spider monkeys, Carlos and Montana, indeed exhibit the close-knit, expressive male-male bond typical of their species. Though Montana is the more dominant individual and leads Carlos, the pair frequently feed together, embrace, and seldom engage in any aggressive gestures toward one another.
 
 


 

 




“As custodians of the planet it is our responsibility to deal with all species with kindness, love and compassion.  That these animals suffer through human cruelty is beyond understanding.  Please help us stop this madness.”  — Richard Gere         






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 over 50 primates saved from research laboratories, animal dealers, and tourist attractions. Here they can heal, form social groups, and live free from exploitation.