Primate Update 12-18

Happy Holidays from the Monkeys and their Caregivers at
Pacific Primate Sanctuary

As we near the end of 2018, Pacific Primate Sanctuary’s community celebrates 35 years of selfless service to threatened and vulnerable animals. With the ongoing help of our incredible partners, the monkeys have been able to live in a natural environment, eating fresh, homegrown food, in custom-built Enclosures, with the ability to express their innate, species-specific, behaviors.

 We are grateful to be able to continue to care for the animals who have found a place of peace at PPS. Many of the monkeys at the Sanctuary have surpassed the expected lifespans for their species. The longevity of the animals at PPS is a testament to the success of our rehabilitation and animal care programs.Individuals from research laboratories, tourist attractions and the inhumane exotic pet trade have been given a safe space to live out their years in the tropical rainforest environment on Maui. Dedicated Interns and Volunteers have been trained to provide expert care to the animals, including: preparing medications, making specialized diets, customizing enclosures, and providing natural enrichment to suit the needs of each individual.

Through two donors’ generosity, PPS was able to purchase 40 custom made sleeping cubes for the monkeys and new heat lamps to keep them warm and dry at night.  Monkeys with mobility issues have been provided with specially built jungle walkways and low, stable branches that are easy to grip, while those who are younger and more active, have suspended branches at all levels to encourage their natural locomotion— climbing and jumping through the treetops.
 
In the wild, the species we care for live in the rainforests of Central and South America. Currently, all of the Amazon Rainforest is threatened, with patches of forest being decimated for timber and firewood, agriculture, construction, and mineral extraction. Climate change also affects these habitats, with drier conditions leading to an increase in forest destruction by fire. Wild primate populations are losing their native forests and are facing extinction. According to the 2018 International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List Report of Threatened Species, two of the species that we care for are in particular danger: black-handed spider monkeys are currently classified as “endangered”, and cotton-top tamarins are considered to be “critically endangered”. As wild primate populations decline, it becomes even more vital that we provide refuge and protection for captive individuals, and PPS is privileged to be able to do so, with the assistance of our kindhearted supporters.

This year, we have continued to raise awareness by providing training and education to members of a new generation of conservationists, environmentalists, and ecologists. Mentored student volunteers are taught how to provide compassionate care to vulnerable and endangered species and to understand the global issues threatening their populations. We share our mission and values with each individual in the PPS community, helping to instill a sense of empathy and humanity towards our fellow beings. Consciousness-raising, regarding animal welfare and conservation, has also been achieved through online newsletters and social media. In 2018, we were able to provide training to numerous Resident Interns, local Volunteers, and an Assistant Manager, as well as create a new position, Primate Care Supervisor. The insight and understanding gained from involvement with PPS, impacts the future personal and professional lives of students, interns, volunteers, and the public and affects an ever-widening circle of people with whom they interact.

We are honored to have received the 2018 Top Rated Nonprofit Award from GreatNonprofits, for the 5^thyear in a row, thanks to the many positive reviews from our donors, supporters and volunteers:  http://greatnonprofits.org/orgn/pacific-primate-sanctuary-inc

Interns and Volunteers share their experiences at PPS in 2018:
“Pacific Primate Sanctuary is a nurturing and healing place for both the animals who have found a home here, as well as for the dedicated team of Volunteers who donate their time. The well-being of the animals is the top priority, and they are cared for with the utmost respect and compassion. The animals are not exploited in any way, and they are free to live out their days in peace. The atmosphere at PPS is one of quiet joy, positive energy, and benevolence. I have been a Volunteer at PPS for over 11 years, and feel truly blessed to be a part of this phenomenal organization.” - Erin Enriques, PPS COO

“Each day, I am blessed to serve these creatures who are beautiful both inside and out, and help provide them with the natural and free lifestyle they deserve.” - Jessica Franco, past PPS Intern and Assistant Manager

“The Sanctuary is unique in that our work is dedicated solely to giving the animals the peaceful, fulfilling lives they deserve. In all my work with animals, I have never seen a place so dedicated to understanding the specific behaviors, needs, and tendencies of each individual that resides here. Rather than just meeting their basic needs, the Sanctuary gives each individual the specialized care they need to heal and grow, both physically and emotionally. The Sanctuary is just that... a Sanctuary. It is a place of nurturing compassion, love, and healing for all those who enter. I will forever be grateful for my time at PPS and the opportunity to live and grow with the amazing primates here- both monkey and human alike.” - Olivia Jarrett, current PPS Intern

The Sanctuary’s life-saving work would not be possible without the many devoted, caring individuals who donate their time, skills, money and resources to our organization. We are deeply grateful to our partners and supporters who have helped to make 2018 another successful and significant year.

Sources:
-Rylands, A.B. & Mendes, S.L. 2008. Callithrix penicillata. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species2008: e.T41519A10486326. http://dx.doi.org/10.2305/IUCN.UK.2008.RLTS.T41519A10486326.en. Downloaded on 29 October 2018.
-Butler, Rhett. “A Place Out of Time: Tropical Rainforests and the Perils They Face - information on tropical forests, deforestation, and biodiversity”. Mongabay. rainforests.mongabay.com

 


HAWAIIAN CULTURE and VALUES

The Hawaiian ancestors adhered to a set of values that guided their daily lives. Their unique beliefs, principles and proverbs have been passed down, through the generations, and are still an important part of traditional Hawaiian society today. In this, and ongoing issues of Primate Update, we explore how the Sanctuary embodies traditional Hawaiian world views, perspectives and practices.

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

The Hawaiians believed that an opportunity to help one another is a gift to both people, and that to live with Aloha,is to have a giving nature. Giving was done for the pleasure of serving others, and not with the expectation of receiving something in return. One of the founding principles of Pacific Primate Sanctuary is that we, as individuals, do not benefit financially or socially from our efforts, rather we offer our service to care for others, to animals who have been exploited and abused. For 35 years, the Sanctuary has exemplified the principal of selfless service by operating an entirely volunteer organization. We believe that a small candle can dispel a great darkness,that compassionate caring and selfless service to others will help to heal the world.

The holiday season is often portrayed as a time for generosity and goodwill, but sadly, consumerism and stress have become far more common this time of year. In the days when discount shopping and materialism seem to be overwhelming people, many of us are searching for more meaningful ways spend our time and give back. Following is a list of suggestions that can help to make your holidays, and the upcoming year, particularly meaningful and memorable.

1. VOLUNTEER YOUR TIME

Whether it’s caring for animals and their home at PPS, helping out at a local soup kitchen, or visiting seniors in a nursing home, volunteering is a gratifying way to spend your time. Volunteering creates a deep sense of fulfillment and you’ll feel good helping others.

2. DONATE TO A WORTHY CAUSE

Instead of buying more stuff that people on your holiday gift list probably don’t need, make a gift donationto Pacific Primate Sanctuary in their honor (see Gift Contributionslater in this newsletter for details). Or collect change in a jar all year and at the end of the year, give the jar anonymously to an organization or individual who could benefit from the money.


3. THANK YOU

Write a quick thank you note to the people who provide a service to you and your family every day– teachers, bus drivers, doctors and nurses, mail carriers, trash collectors, etc. A little recognition can go a long way towards brightening someone’s day. This is a particularly good activity to do with kids, helping to encourage a sense of gratitude at a young age.


4. ERRANDS

Ask your friends, neighbors and family members: “Can I pick something up for you?” Many people are busy and overextended this time of year. If you’re going to the store already, call a neighbor you think could use a break and ask if she’d like you to pick something up for her while you’re at the store. This small gesture can really mean a lot to a busy mom, a sick grandparent, or a college student in the middle of finals week.


5. WRITE LETTERS TO FRIENDS AND FAMILY

When is the last time you received a handwritten letter in the mail? Think of the amazing people in your life. Take some time to write them a letter telling them why they are important to you, and to share what has been going on in your life.


6.     DONATE GOODS TO CHARITY

This is a perfect time of year to go through your house, and get rid of the things you don’t need; clothes and toys children have outgrown, kitchen supplies you never use, old electronics that you have replaced, etc. Pacific Primate Sanctuary is always looking for gently used sheets, pillow cases, baby blankets, and towels. You can also donate clothing and toys to organizations like the Salvation Army, Big Brothers and Sisters, or a local homeless shelter, and the items you no longer use will go to someone who needs them.

Sources:
https://www.tourmaui.com/hawaiian-quotes-proverbs/
-https://www.care2.com/causes/10-things-to-do-instead-of-shopping-on-black-friday.html
-https://www.bradaronson.com/good-deeds-for-the-holidays/
-http://morningmanao.blogspot.com/2009/05/hopena-aloha-mai-e-na-makamaka-aloha.html

MEET the PPS TEAM MEMBERS

Farewell to Assistant Manager Jessica, who has moved back to the mainland to pursue a doctorate degree.  In her role asAssistant Manager, Jessica was responsible for coordinating the Volunteer program, creating the monthly Volunteer Schedule, and helping to supervise the staff.  During her time in this position, Jessica reviewed and revised PPS Medical, Procedures, Intern, and Management Manuals.  She also assisted with Grant research, helping to find potential funding opportunities.  Jessica took the lead on our Behavioral Conditioning program, and made excellent progress with many of the animals. Jessica’s efforts have ensured t

hat Artemis, who has kidney disease, is now able to be easily and safely caught for regular SubQ fluids with minimal stress.  Jessica demonstrated her commitment to PPS and the monkeys without fail, always considering the needs of the animals and the Sanctuary when making plans and decisions.  She was eager to learn as much as she could, and to be a support in any way possible. It was evident that Jessica cared deeply about each monkey at PPS, and was fully invested in their wellbeing.  She valued positivity and growth, both for herself and for the other team members.  In her final 2 months, Jessica made every effort to pass on her knowledge to the remaining team members, particularly Primate Care Supervisor, Lauren, who has assumed some of Jessica’s responsibilities.  She was an invaluable member of the PPS Team; we are deeply grateful for her time at PPS, and she is already dearly missed.

Jessica writes: It’s hard to believe over two years have passed since beginning my journey with PPS. Originally, I was drawn to the Animal Care Internship due to its comprehensive nature, educating Interns in a wide variety of areas such basic animal care, primate behavior and communication, emergency care, behavioral conditioning, and colony management. My initial Internship proved to be a wonderful experience, and I was excited to be asked to stay on for the additional Assistant Manager training, learning further aspects related to sanctuary management, including supervising medical care and colony management, overseeing Volunteer and Interns, grant work, and social media.  

During my time at PPS, I have been blessed with memories that I will forever hold dear, and the bond that I have formed with the monkeys has brought me happiness each and every day. Although there have been times of sadness, when despite everyone’s best efforts, it has simply been a monkey’s time to pass, the knowledge of giving them comfort in their time of need has brought peace to my heart. And of course, for every moment of sadness, there have been countless moments of joy; nursing Genevieve back to health after a pancreatic flare-up, and watching her slowly but surely get better and better each day, working with Artemis on training that would allow her, after two years, to safely return to her outdoor Enclosure, and teaching Neptune how to climb again after his knee injury, just to name a few. 

Aside from my memories with the monkeys, I have also built countless memories and friendships with fellow Interns & Volunteers from across the world. I have learned so much about different cultures, beliefs, and lifestyles, and will forever treasure all they have taught me about life and, ultimately, how to be a better person. I am so thankful to have met these people, and though I am sad to be leaving, I take comfort in the knowledge that they will remain lifelong friends. As my time at PPS comes to an end, I know I will be forever grateful for all that I have been able to do here, and even the small differences I have been able to make each day to improve the lives of the everyone here, both human and monkey.

Assistant Manager, Jessica, has made outstanding, substantial, and enduring contributions to PPS and she will always be part of the Pacific Primate Sanctuary Community.

                                          
                                              HOW YOU CAN HELP the MONKEYS at PPS

The Season of Giving
The end of the year is upon us; it is a time of year to celebrate with friends and family and remember the year past. It is a time when joy, kindness, and the spirit of generosity abound. Below are ways you can help Pacific Primate Sanctuary during this time of giving and goodwill.

Gift Contributions
Many of us do not value the commercialism of the holiday buying binge and are searching for truly meaningful ways to give to our family and friends. We would like to offer a unique gift giving opportunity:
Gift Contributions can be made to Pacific Primate Sanctuary in the name of anyone on your holiday list. Your Gift Recipients will receive a beautiful Contribution Certificate showing you have made a donation in their name, along with information about PPS. This thoughtful and significant gift helps to feed and care for threatened, endangered and distressed primates. Please visit our website for additional details:http://www.pacificprimate.org/help.htm

AmazonSmile
AmazonSmile is a simple and automatic way for you to support Pacific Primate Sanctuary every time you shop at Amazon, at no cost to you. When you shop at smile.amazon.com, you’ll find the exact same low prices, vast selection, and convenient shopping experience as Amazon.com, with the added bonus that Amazon will donate a portion of the purchase price to PPS. Go to smile.amazon.com, and select Pacific Primate Sanctuary as your charity, or you can click on the following link:  https://smile.amazon.com/ch/99-0285731

GoodShop
Use GoodShop.com for your shopping. After designating Pacific Primate Sanctuary as your nonprofit of choice, you can shop at more than 900 top online retailers and a substantial percentage of your purchases will automatically be donated to the Sanctuary!  GoodShop also provides many valuable coupons to use towards your purchases. When you select a store, you will automatically be redirected to a coupon page for that store.

“Giving is not just about making a donation, It is about making a difference.”
-Kathy Calvin, CEO of United Nations Foundation

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 joining the Pacific Primate Sanctuary’s Community, by volunteering your time and skills, please e-mail:  pacificprimatesanctuary@gmail.com

Facebook Fundraisers
Facebook now offers online fundraising opportunities, which allow anyone to create a fundraiser for Pacific Primate Sanctuary. Many people have chosen to do a Birthday Fundraiserand raise funds for charity in honor of their birthday. On your personal Facebook page, click on the Fundraisers link, then select “Raise Money for a Nonprofit Organization”. You can then select Pacific Primate Sanctuary, Inc.as your charity, and begin raising donations by sharing with your friends and family.
https://www.facebook.com/fundraisers/about/

How to Contribute Directly
We rely on and deeply appreciate your continued partnership. Please make tax-deductible donations to the Sanctuary on our Website: www.pacificprimate.organd on Facebook, using PayPal, or by sending a check to:                                     

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

“Malama ‘Ola the Monkeys” and help us provide food, medicine and supplies for the monkeys at 
Pacific Primate Sanctuary and contribute to the care of the
Beings with whom we share the Earth!

 


CONTINUING EDUCATION

Intern Olivia: Special Topic
Spider monkey conservation in the twenty-first century: recognizing risks and opportunities

The endangerment of wild animal species is a growing concern in today’s world, and nonhuman primates, our closest biological relatives, are not immune to its effects. As of January 2017, 60% of the world’s primate species were on the course to extinction, with 75% already in steady decline. Spider Monkeys are no exception to this catastrophe; they are listed among the IUCN’s (International Union for the Conservation of Nature) top 25 most endangered primate species, with many subspecies considered “critically endangered”.

Spider monkey populations face a number of threats, the most prominent being habitat loss, habitat degradation, and hunting. The first threat, massive habitat loss, is driven by land clearance and agricultural expansion. Forests cover almost half of the land in Latin America, the native forests of the spider monkey. This region is subjected to an increasing deforestation rate, and loses more than five million hectares of forest every year. The second threat to life in the Neotropics is habitat degradation via practices like selective logging and other forms of vegetative disturbance. The third major threat that spider monkeys face is being hunted. Spider monkeys have large ranging areas and spend much of their time in the upper levels of the forest canopy. Therefore, they use loud vocalizations to stay in contact with other individuals in their group, as well as warn others of potential danger. Their loud vocalizations and large body size, while helpful in locating one another, also serve as a disadvantage by making them an easy target for the humans who hunt them. In fact, they are often the first Neotropical primates to disappear from an area being ravaged by human hunting.

The results of these external threats are magnified by spider monkeys’ slow birth rates, feeding habits, and method of travel. Spider monkeys have prolonged gestation periods, infant dependency, and interbirth intervals. These factors combine to make their populations especially susceptible to the negative impacts of hunting and deforestation. The effects of habitat disturbance, too, are magnified for spider monkeys, as demonstrated in a study by Johns and Skorupa (1987). The study found body size and feeding preference to be the best predictors of a species’ susceptibility to logging activities; as large-bodied frugivores, spider monkeys are among the most susceptible. Additionally, spider monkeys’ preference for the upper canopy may further their vulnerability, as they rely on aerial pathways to navigate through their forest- when trees are cut, these aerial pathways disappear. The magnified effects of habitat disturbance have been demonstrated by spider monkeys’ failure to persist in smaller patches of forest.

Spider monkeys are among the most specialized seed dispersers in the animal kingdom. Their role in seed dispersal deems them vital to the existence of countless plant species (and therefore animal species) in the Neotropics. Understanding this only emphasizes the importance of protecting their species, and therefore preserving the biodiversity of the Neotropics.

Considering current populations and extinction trends in primates, the world will soon face a major extinction event if action is not taken. At PPS, we work to educate others on the threats that many primate species face in the Neotropics. We urge for a change in the way humans impact their environment and contribute to decreasing populations. Due to their backgrounds, the primates at PPS cannot be released in the wild. Nonetheless, we advocate for their wild relatives in hopes that they may one day live in a safe and protected environment, free from the current problems caused by humans.


Works Cited:

• Cawthon Lang, Kristina. “Primate Factsheets: Black Spider Monkey: Genus Ateles Paniscus.” Primate Info Net. National Primate Research Center, University of Wisconsin- Madison, 2010, http://pin.primate.wisc.edu/factsheets/entry/black_spider_monkey. Accessed 8 Aug. 2018.
• Estrada, A., Garber, P. A., et al. “Impending extinction crisis of the world’s primates: why primates matter”. Science Advances 3.1 (2017). DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.1600946.Accessed 4 Sept. 2018.
• Ramos-Fernandez, G., and Wallace, R. B. “Spider monkey conservation in the twenty-first century: recognizing risks and opportunities”.Spider Monkeys: Behavior, Ecology, and Evolution of the Genus Ateles. Edited by Christina Campbell. New York: Cambridge University Press, 2008. Print, pp. 351-376.
• The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Version 2018-1. www.iucnredlist.org. Accessed 4 Sept. 2018.

Intern Kaylee: Special Topic

Tamarin Predation Pressures

Tamarin lifestyle is heavily influenced by the predation pressures they encounter on a daily basis in their native habitats. Tamarins have many predators in the wild, such as raptors, hawks, snakes, and ocelots, and they must always remain vigilant. As they often live in groups of up to seven individuals, this task is achieved more easily. Establishing territories, both spanning across the land and vertically up through the rainforest, aids in separation between established groups, and creates a home range that the animals patrol and protect. Observations of wild tamarins demonstrates that they call to each other frequently throughout the day within their territories, whether to alert the group of food, possible predators, or to maintain knowledge of general whereabouts.

An adaptation that tamarins have evolved, to reduce vulnerability from nocturnal predators, is to retire to their sleeping site before dusk each evening. Tamarin sleeping site choices are often the most concealed, high above the forest floor, and concealed from above. Routinely, each night all the tamarins in a group will sleep close together, in a tight ball, limbs entwined, (historically, at the Sanctuary, the babies are innermost, with older females holding them close, with the father over the top of the rest of the family, protecting them with his body.)  Due to the likely susceptibility to predators, the last place that a tamarin wants to find him or herself, is alone. Sleep patterns also seem to vary by species; Galatea, a saddleback tamarin at PPS, goes to bed earlier than all of the other monkeys. Andrew Smith noted, in an article regarding sleeping patterns of saddleback tamarins, that they often retire to sleep before other species of tamarins, likely due to a variety of factors that influence species differently, including differences in predation pressures.

At PPS, we make every effort to create a habitat that is as natural as possible for the monkeys. The monkeys at PPS can experience natural regions in their Enclosures, which are designed to mimic the five layers of the rainforest (emergent, canopy, middle layer, shrubs, and herbs).  The sleeping cube that each monkey has in his/her Enclosure is located as high as possible, has a covered top, and has enough room for a family to sleep curled together. Although their Enclosures protect them from predation dangers, the monkeys at PPS still react to perceived threats as they would in the wild. If an unusual noise occurs outside, one tamarin may make an alarm call to alert the others, which reverberates throughout the Corridor, instantly accompanied by the alarm calls of the other monkeys. Caretakers investigate every sound of alarm, assess and try to mitigate whatever is causing the distress— it may be a bird who has flown directly above an Enclosure, a mongoose running by, or other creature burrowed nearby.

References

• Rylands, Anthony B. Marmosets and Tamarins Systematics, Behaviour, and Ecology. Oxford Science Publications: Oxford University Press, 1993.
• Smith, Andrew C., et al. “Long-Term Patterns of Sleeping Site Use in Wild Saddleback (Saguinus Fuscicollis) and Mustached Tamarins (S. Mystax): Effects of Foraging, Thermoregulation, Predation, and Resource Defense Constraints.” American Journal of Physical Anthropology, vol. 134, no. 3, 2007, pp. 340–353., doi:10.1002/ajpa.20676.
• PPS F9 Cotton Top Tamarin Ethology

Intern Cookie: Special Topic
Constructing Phylogenies

Constructing a phylogenetic tree is useful tool for developing a more holistic understanding of a given species. Phylogenyis the study of evolutionary relationships, from which we can determine shared ancestry and genetic proximity to other species within the animal kingdom. Species are distinct from one another based on how genotypes(inherited characteristics), phenotypes(the way genes physically manifest themselves), and behaviors are uniquely blended. This group of characteristics determines how an individual occupies and responds to a given environment. A species will sometimes evolve novel traits, known as adaptations, to exploit a niche in a given environment.

Because evolution is often a slow process that occurs over millions of years, traits change relatively rarely, and descendants of a common ancestor will often share many common characteristics. We can use phylogenies to illustrate the dates of a species’ divergence from a common ancestor and use this information to estimate when and how a trait or adaptation evolved. Specifically, we can use phylogenetic relationships to construct which features are primitive(shared with a common ancestor) and which characteristics are derived(different from common ancestor). Since it is difficult to definitively reconstruct the evolutionary record, in mapping phylogeny, we must use the evidence available to make inferences about ancestral relationships. These inferences are often made using the parsimony principle, a principle meaning the simplest answer that requires the fewest evolutionary changes is the best answer. Take the following example:




Species A and B have brown fur, and species C has white fur. Based on the parsimony principle, we infer that the ancestral trait is brown fur, which was conserved in species B. Therefore, by following this principle, we also determine the white fur in species C is derived, or newly evolved.

While physical traits and appearance can be useful to determine relatedness, especially using the parsimony principle, species that are genetically distant will sometimes share convergent features. Convergent traitsare traits that are similar between two species that are not closely related. These traits are typically reflective of a common way of adapting to a particular environment and not necessarily of shared ancestry. For example, both humans and chickens are bipedal, upright walkers, but these two organisms are not this way because their last shared ancestor was also a biped. Instead, they are similarly upright, two-legged movers due to the common conditions they inhabit. Therefore, we must also use other available evidence, besides physical traits, to supplement our understanding of evolutionary relationships. The fossil record as well as molecular dating and genetic sequencing are important and oftentimes more accurate means of reconstructing phylogenies. Phylogenies ideally incorporate many different types of evidence upon which ancestral connections are then based.

We can use tree-thinking to better understand the monkeys at the Pacific Primate Sanctuary (PPS). PPS is home to 7 different New World Primate species. New World Monkeys of South and Central America are also known as Platyrrhines, and their phylogeny is depicted below:
        


From this phylogenetic tree, we can see that Cebusis within the Cebidaefamily, and that Atelidaeand Pitheciidaeare other families. PPS is home to capuchins (Cebus), spider monkeys (Ateles),marmosets (Callithrix)and tamarins (Saguinus).Although spider monkeys and capuchins may initially seem more genetically close because they are physically similar in terms of large body size and prehensile tails that assist arboreal locomotion, we know that these features just reflect convergence. Both spider monkeys and capuchins occupy the upper canopy of the rainforest, and their tails assist with stability and movement. Capuchins are actually more closely related to marmosets and tamarins, which are small monkeys that lack grasping tails. Using phylogeny, we know that the species in Cebidae will therefore have some similarities in behavior, diet, communication, and habitat that we should take into consideration. These traits are useful when designing enclosures and monitoring social interactions. For example, Cebidshave opposable thumbs, making these monkeys highly manually dexterous. Using this information, we know that we may be able to provide similar forms of enrichment to engage the forelimbs of both the capuchins and the marmosets at the Sanctuary. As caregivers, it is important to know not only about the individual histories of each monkey we house but also to have awareness of their evolutionary histories.

References

-Avise, J. C. Evolutionary Pathways in Nature: A Phylogenetic Approach. Cambridge University Press, Cambridge, 2006.
-Fragaszy, Dorothy M., Visalberghi, Elisabetta, Fedigan, Linda M. The Complete Capuchin: The Biology of the Genus Cebus. Cambridge University Press, Cambridge, 2004.

-Kay, Richard F. “Pitheciidae and Other Platyrrhine Seed Predators.” Evolutionary Biology and Conservation of Titis, Sakis and Uacaris, edited by Liza M. Veiga et al., Cambridge University Press, Cambridge, 2013.

“Nothing else in all life is such a maker of joy and cheer as the privilege of doing good.” 
— James Russell Miller

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

Primate Update July 2018

Sustainability at Pacific Primate Sanctuary (PPS) 

All living beings depend on the Earth for their survival, making the preservation of the natural world imperative. Sustainability is defined by the EPA as “the maintenance of conditions that allow for the coexistence of humans and nature, for both present and subsequent generations”. This means living in a way that is not just sustainable now, but that will allow for the continuation of life in the future.

Tragically, so many current practices worldwide do not support sustainability, and we are wiping the planet of so many resources vital to all forms of life.  Primates are considered one of the most severely affected populations, with an estimated 50% of the world’s primate populations at risk of extinction due to unsustainable practices such as habitat destruction and environmental pollution.

New World Primates, like those we care for at PPS, consume a wide variety of fresh fruits and foliage in their native homes.  In order to emulate their natural diet, we provide the monkeys with an assortment of fruits, vegetables and edible flowers and plants.  However, commercial farming techniques are unsustainable, with practices such as slash and burn agriculture, use of pesticides and manufactured fertilizers, and food and water wastage destroying the land.


Produce purchased in the stores often comes from different areas of the world, so it is packaged up, often in non-biodegradable materials, and shipped long distances to reach Maui, utilizing precious fossil fuels.

To reduce our ecological impact, we care for the land, growing our own fruits and vegetables, and tending to numerous plants and trees that can be used to fill the monkey’s outdoor enclosures. Maui’s tropical climate allows us to create fresh produce year-round, and we cultivate over thirty types of fruit and vegetables on site, including bananas, avocados, lettuce, tomato, cucumber, lychee, longan, sapote, lilikoi, and chayote squash. As most rainforest vegetation grows well here, we have cultivated hundreds of trees from seeds to vegetate the habitats for each colony of monkeys. The Sanctuary creates a natural environment for the monkeys, utilizing branches and plants grown on site to furnish the animals’ outdoor enclosures, and surrounding the perimeter with lush jungle plants.

Growing our own produce and plants for the enclosures helps us to have a positive impact the environment. We know that no valuable forests were damaged in the process.  We can rest assured that what we are feeding the animals is organic; better not only for the health of the monkeys, but also resulting in fewer harmful pesticides and insecticides entering the environment, and reducing fossil fuels since it doesn’t need to be shipped in. Avoiding shipping also prevents the depletion of nutrients that occurs in most commercial produce, allowing us to serve the monkeys the most nutritious food possible. Different plants ripen at different times of year, mirroring seasonal changes in food availability experienced by monkeys in the wild. As food items come into season, monkeys are always eager to receive fruits and flowers they have not had since the previous year, preferring these food items to those they have been regularly receiving. This seasonal shift in food availability serves as one of the many ways PPS strives to provide the monkeys with a life as close to “wild” as possible.

The extensive orchard, garden and grounds must be skillfully tended to continue to provide the animals with this ideal environment.  Please help us to continue to provide this care for the monkeys, and maintain our sustainable practices, by making a tax-deductible donation online: http://pacificprimate.org/help.htm 

References:

• Leonard Perry. Why Grow Vegetables?University of Vermont Extension Department of Plant and Soil Science. Online
• Heidi Godman. Backyard gardening; grow your own food, improve your health.Harvard Health Letter. Online
• The Extinction Crisis.Biologicaldiversity.org. Online

HAWAIIAN CULTURE and VALUES

The Hawaiian ancestors adhered to a set of values that guided their daily lives. These beliefs and principles have been passed on, through the generations, and are still an important part of traditional Hawaiian society today.  In this, and ongoing issues of Primate Update, we explore how the Sanctuary embodies traditional Hawaiian world view, perspectives and practices.

Hahai no ka ua i ka ulula`au
The rain follows after the forest.

Ancient Hawaiians recognized the importance of protecting the land, and understood the delicate balance between the forests, rain and the preservation of the land. The rains are attracted to forest trees. Knowing this, Hawaiian cut down only the trees that were needed for their survival.  They realized that if you destroy the forest, the rains will cease to fall, and the land will become a desert- incapable of growing the plants that were utilized for food, medicine and resources.

“In ancient Hawai‘i, ‘aina(land) was the most revered natural resource. As Hawaiians used the abundant natural resources within their ahupua‘a(ancient land division), they practiced aloha(respect), laulima(cooperation), andmalama (stewardship) which resulted in a desirable pono (balance). This is sound resource management where the interconnectedness of the clouds, the forests, the streams, the fishponds, the sea, and the people is clearly recognized.”
— Dr. Carlos Andrade, Professor of Hawaiian Studies at UH Manoa

Sustainability was woven into every aspect of ancient Hawaiian life, and continues to be an important practice in Hawaii today.  At Pacific Primate Sanctuary, we nurture the land, tending it lovingly to grow fresh produce and to maintain the lush jungle environment.  The soil is cared for, by adding fresh amendments, so it never becomes depleted. Caregivers only take the branches and plants that are needed for the animals’ Enclosures.  Ti plants and Hibiscus bushes are never cut down completely, but instead, harvested in a way that allows them to continue to grow and produce. The plants and the land are respected, and treated with appreciation.  We do not believe these are resources for us to exploit, or abuse, but rather recognize that we are fortunate to be able to share in the Earth’s bounty, and that in doing so, it is our kuleana (responsibility) to tend to the land.

 

MEET the INTERNS

Pacific Primate Sanctuary’s year long Resident Intern Program allows for the continued education of individuals seeking to learn more about New World primate care and husbandry. Interns receive intensive training in a variety of subjects including basic animal care, emergency medical care, and facility management and oversight.

A Hui Ho (until we meet again) Intern Holly

Holly completed her Resident Internship in June, and has moved to Colorado, where she will be going to graduate school. Holly took the responsibility of being a Primary Animal Caregiver seriously and was a committed and skilled Intern.

She is very bright and observant individual, with an excellent memory. These skills allowed Holly to learn new information quickly, and readily incorporate all that she learned into practice. Holly could remember the many small details that come with caring for animals, which made her an effective team leader.

Holly’s Independent Intern Project focused on Behavioral Conditioning, a topic that she had little knowledge of prior to her time at PPS.  She reformatted and edited several extensive documents, making them more applicable to PPS. She also created new documents that will help us to teach future Interns how to become effective trainers.

There are not enough words to Thank Holly for her commitment to the Sanctuary over the last year, and for taking excellent care of the monkeys and their home.  We will miss having her strength and leadership. We will always be grateful for the many valuable contributions she has made to Pacific Primate Sanctuary.

In her farewell letter, Holly Writes:
I first heard of the Internship from one of my college professors. At the time, what was happening in the present was my only concern, such as my coursework and passing my classes. I wasn’t focusing too much on what to do beyond college. However, as my graduation began to draw near, I had to start thinking about what was my next step. The internship came up again as an option for what to do after college. Now that I was coming to the end, I started considering what my options were. I wanted to go to graduate school and get a Master’s degree, but after nearly five years of college, I didn’t want to go right away. Suddenly, the internship was looking very appealing: a year of gaining experience in animal care without the stress of passing classes or maintaining a GPA. After discussing with my family, I knew this was what I wanted to do.

The Interns are truly the backbone of the Sanctuary. Without us here, onsite, every day, the Sanctuary wouldn’t function. Living in the yurts was certainly an experience: listening to geckos chirping, hearing the monkeys every morning, and being with the other Interns. It’s quiet here; occasionally, you’ll hear a car on the road, but other than that, it’s very peaceful. With Interns living onsite, the Sanctuary becomes our lives. The training is in-depth and hands-on. I never felt like I was sitting in a classroom being lectured to, but rather was participating in the lives of the monkeys from the moment I arrived. The training never felt rushed. I was never pushed into a situation I wasn’t ready for, nor did I feel as if I were ever ill-prepared when the time finally came for certain tasks. I was shown to not only observe species behavior, but look at each monkey as an individual with their unique personalities. In the end, I contributed to the Sanctuary by researching behavioral conditioning, and updating old documents and created new ones. Current and future interns have access to up-to-date training techniques and information, as well as a guide for adapting training techniques to suit each individual monkey. While the work was challenging, the end result was that I felt I was truly contributing something valuable to a worthy cause.

I’m glad I took this opportunity. It has given me a chance to see what a career in animal care will be like. I will look towards the future with the knowledge that I have gathered. Not only was I trained as an animal caregiver, but also as a documentarian, skills that are applicable in many fields. As I come to the end of my internship, I find myself reflecting on everything that I’ve learned and experienced. As I leave back for the mainland, I’ll be taking many fond memories back with me, such as when the monkeys “happy chirp” in my presence (and I imitate to the best of my ability), or when Davis and Mariette wouldn’t let me leave their Enclosure because Mariette kept wanting to see what was in my apron pocket, or when Diedre was so eager for training that she ran face-first into the target stick. I’ll never forget the year I lived with monkeys in Hawaii.

Farewell Holly, we miss your presence at PPS,
 and hope to see you again in the future!

 



HOW YOU CAN HELP the MONKEYS at PPS

AmazonSmile
AmazonSmile is a simple and automatic way for you to support Pacific Primate Sanctuary every time you shop at Amazon, at no cost to you. When you shop at smile.amazon.com, you’ll find the exact same low prices, vast selection and convenient shopping experience as Amazon.com, with the added bonus that Amazon will donate a portion of the purchase price to PPS. Go to smile.amazon.com, and select Pacific Primate Sanctuary as your charity, or you can click on the following link:  https://smile.amazon.com/ch/99-0285731

GoodShop
GoodShop is THE go-to place to find all those coupon codes and promo codes on the web for thousands of stores from The Gap, Best Buy, Expedia, Target, Apple and more!  So, don’t miss a chance to save a bit of money, AND, when you shop through Goodshop, a percentage of what you spend is donated to Pacific Primate Sanctuary! 


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 joining the Pacific Primate Sanctuary’s Community, by volunteering your time and skills, please e-mail:  pacificprimatesanctuary@gmail.com

Facebook Fundraisers
Facebook now offers online fundraising opportunities, which allows anyone to create a fundraiser for Pacific Primate Sanctuary. Many people have chosen to do a Birthday Fundraiserand raise funds for charity in honor of their birthday. On your personal Facebook page, click on the Fundraisers link, then select “Raise Money for a Nonprofit Organization”. You can then select Pacific Primate Sanctuary, Inc.as your charity, and begin raising donations by sharing with your friends and family.
https://www.facebook.com/fundraisers/about/

How to Contribute Directly
We rely on and deeply appreciate your continued partnership. Please make tax-deductible donations to the Sanctuary on our Website: www.pacificprimate.organd on Facebook, using PayPal, or by sending a check to:                                   

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

 

“Malama ‘Ola the Monkeys”
and help us provide food, medicine and supplies
for the monkeys at Pacific Primate Sanctuary
and contribute to the care of theBeings with whom we share the Earth!

 

CONTINUING EDUCATION

Intern Holly: Special Topic
Chimerism

Genetic chimerismoccurs when an organism has cells that are genetically distinct from one another. This organism may have blood cells of differing blood types, or two differently-colored eyes, or they may even have a mix of male and female reproductive organs. In most animals, chimerism develops when multiple fertilized eggs merge together while in utero, creating a single organism with multiple cells that are different from rest of the body’s genetic structure; thus, chimerism is often the result of a zygote absorbing their twin. Chimerism can also occur in plants, but the chimera is often the result of a mutation during cell division, rather than two early-developed organisms merging together.

All species of Callitrichidae, aside from the Goeldi’s marmoset (Callimico goeldii), routinely give birth to fraternal twins. Early in development, the placentas of the twin embryos fuse together. This placental fusion allows the twins to exchange stem cells, specifically germ cells and hematopoietic cells. Germs cells are the cells that will give rise to gametes (ovum and sperm) in reproductive organs, while hematopoietic cells will become blood cells. These mixed hematopoietic cells can be found in blood, bone marrow, and internal organs, which means that every tamarin and marmoset is a composite of cells from multiple individuals: a chimera.

Callitrichids also routinely engage in germline chimerism, a trait that is unique to them specifically due to its regular occurrence, rather than by chance. As mentioned, germ cells will become gametes, the cells that an organism uses to reproduce. During cell exchange through the fused placenta the twins’ germ cells exchange alleles. Alleles are the expressed variants of genes, i.e.: whether an animal will have blue or green eyes. Not only is every tamarin and marmoset a chimera, they also carry reproductive alleles of their fraternal twin, in addition to their own.

One implication of germline chimerism is that a tamarin or marmoset could sire or give birth to offspring that are more genetically related to their twin than to them. Evidence suggests that chimerism is a contributor for the cooperative breeding system found in Callitrichids. In a cooperative breeding system, all members of a family group help care for offspring, not just parents. Personal reproductive fitnessis the number of offspring that an individual bears, while inclusive reproductive fitnessis the number of offspring equivalentsthat an individual raises. The non-reproducing “helpers” in a cooperative breeding system are engaging in inclusive fitness: by taking care of their siblings or nieces/nephews, they are ensuring that their family line lives on, even if they do not reproduce themselves. Due to germline chimerism and the resulting interrelatedness of the family group, it becomes very important for a tamarin or marmoset to help care for their siblings/niece/nephew, because that offspring may actually be more closely related to them than to their biological parents.

Many of the tamarins and marmosets at Pacific Primate Sanctuary come from the same family groups. With the knowledge of chimerism, it becomes evident that the level of interrelatedness is more complicated than a standard family tree diagram would suggest. When attempting to pair a male and female, we have had the most success with pairing two completely unrelated individuals. Not only does this kind of pairing have the most resemblance to wild Callitrichid breeding pairs, but it is possible that tamarins and marmosets may recognize family traits, even in an individual they have never met before, and prefer not to partner with a closely related individual, although, more evidence is needed to support this hypothesis. (Male Callitrichids at PPS have been vasectomized.)

References
-Rutherford, J. N. & Tardif, S. “Mother’s Little Helper? The Placenta and Its Role in Intrauterine Maternal Investment in the Common Marmoset (Callithrix jacchus).” TheSmallest Anthropoids: The Marmoset/Callimico Radiation, edited by Susan M. Ford, Leila M. Porter, & Lesa C. Davis, Springer, 2009, pp. 301-329.

 

Special Topic: Intern Tiffany
Tool use in Capuchins

Capuchins are known to use diverse objects as tools for various purposes. They can become quite skilled in doing so, and actually much of their reputation as “clever” monkeys rests upon the fact that they use tools. An animal uses a tool when it uses an object as a functional extension of its body, such as its mouth or hand, to act on another object or a surface to attain an immediate goal. Tool use can therefore appear in many functional categories of behavior, for example feeding, communication, exploration, etc.

Interestingly, the arboreal lifestyle of capuchins may be thought to limit their opportunities to use tools. In the trees, their hands are more often needed for support, and loose objects that could be used as tools are less available than on the ground. However, capuchins do spend a lot of time on the forest floor as well, as they are able to walk bipedally and carry objects in their hands. In addition, there are aspects of capuchins’ behavior and ecology that support their use of tools in the wild. Capuchins possess the necessary sensory and anatomical characteristics for using objects as tools. They have well-articulated hands with anatomical adaptations that favor the fine manipulation or precise positioning of objects. Capuchins also possess two behavioral characteristics that are particularly relevant to using objects as tools. Firstly, although using a tool is an individual activity, it is acquired more readily in socially supportive contexts, where experts tolerate novices nearby. Capuchins live in social groups and are relatively tolerant of one another. Usually, younger and less proficient individuals observe more experienced conspecifics, who tolerate their presence, and some stealing by the young observers is also allowed. In this sense, the use of tools is a skill that is more easily acquired and transmitted in social groups where individuals learn from one another. Secondly, capuchins generate a great variety of explorative and manipulative behaviors that involve acting with objects and on surfaces. They spontaneously combine objects with substrates and with each other by pounding and rubbing.

Capuchin monkeys feed on many foods that require extraction from substrates, such as nuts, snails, husked fruits, or invertebrates hidden in wood. Because they live in habitats with pronounced seasonal changes in the abundance and varieties of potential foods, their diet shifts accordingly. When fleshy fruits are scarce, capuchins shift their diet to feed on foods that take more effort to find or process, like brazil nuts, palm nuts, or oysters. Sometimes an individual cannot break items by direct pounding or biting, and in such cases, using a tool may be the solution. An example of tool use during feeding has been observed in capuchins who use stones to pound open palm seeds on stone anvils. These seeds are often parasitized by larvae, which capuchins are fond of. They place a single seed on a stone large enough to use as an anvil and use a smaller one as a pounding tool. Holding the pounding tool with two hands, they strike the seed until it cracks open. In general, capuchin monkeys are more likely to use tools to obtain foods when they cannot get them in any other way, and when more easily obtained foods are scarce.

In conclusion, a greater degree of terrestriality and a relative shortage of readily obtainable foods seems to promote the emergence of tool use in capuchins. The most frequently observed instances of tool use in the wild are pounding a stone on a nut that a monkey has placed on a hard surface, like an anvil. At Pacific Primate Sanctuary, white-faced capuchins (Cebus capucinus) Miracle and Prospero never experience shortages of food, and therefore have less need to develop tool use to access food, as their wild counterparts would. However, they do possess the same anatomical and behavioral characteristics as their wild born relatives; they are very dexterous and inquisitive, and they manipulate, explore, and interact with their surroundings. Interestingly, Miracle and Prospero have learned to use objects as tools in different ways, one of the most common behaviors we have seen involves their water spigot.  The spigot is designed so that when pressure is placed on it, water is released, so when the monkeys press their mouth up against it, it lifts up and they drink.  Miracle and Prospero have discovered that if they put small rocks or sticks into their water spigot, it will create a constant flow of water, which they use to drink, clean their hands or food, and soak food to make it soft.

References:

• Fragaszy, Dorothy M., Visalberghi, Elisabetta, Fedigan, Linda M. “The Complete Capuchin – The Biology of the Genus Cebus”. United Kingdom, Cambridge: University Press, 2004.
• Ottoni, E. B., Izar, P. “Capuchin Monkey Tool Use: Overview and Implications”. Evolutionary Anthropology, vol. 17, 2008, pp. 171-178.
• Fernanded, M. E. B. “Tool Use and Predation of Oysters (Crassostrea rhizophorae) by the Tufted Capuchin, Cebus apella paella, in Brackish Water Mangrove Swamp”. Primates, vol. 32, 1992, pp. 529-531.

Special Topic: Intern Olivia
Spider monkeys as seed dispersers

Of all the neotropical primates, spider monkeys are the most specialized consumers of ripe fruits.Spider monkeys eat very quickly and swallow most of their food whole, though there are other species that swallow fruit seeds, spider monkeys are unique in that they hardly chew their food. Thus, they forgo the process of mastication (chewing or destroying the seeds) and the seeds they eat pass through their digestive tracts unscathed. This, along with their large body size and wide-ranging patterns, places them among the most specialized seed dispersers in the animal kingdom.

Spider monkeys’ role in seed dispersal deems them vital to the existence of countless plant species in the Neotropics. In ensuring the survival of such plants, they also support the existence and livelihood of the many other animal species that eat those plants. However, despite their major role in the ecosystem, spider monkeys are not immune to the dangers posed by humans. Like so many others, spider monkeys are at risk, largely due to human hunting and deforestation. Understanding how spider monkeys have come to have such a vital role in the ecosystems they inhabit emphasizes the importance of protecting their species, and therefore preserving the biodiversity of the Neotropics.

Spider monkeys eat a wide variety of fruits, and therefore ingest a wide variety of seeds. A study by Link and Di Fiore (2006) examined the eating habits and subsequent seed dispersal of one population of spider monkeys over the course of a year. In their study, they found that spider monkeys fed on the fruits of at least 152 different plant species, and swallowed seeds from more than 98% of these. These seeds range in size from less than 1mm to over 27mm in diameter. Even among other large-bodied Neotropical primates, the ability to pass seeds that large is seen almost exclusively in spider monkeys. At PPS, the spider monkey’s’ natural role as a seed dispersal is made evident in the foliage of Carlos and Montana’s enclosure. There, you can see a variety of fruit plants that have sprouted as a result of the whole fruits that Carlos and Montana consume, such as tomatoes and papaya.
Another factor that contributes to the spider monkeys’ efficiency in seed dispersal is their large home range. A home range refers the distance that a population covers in any given day. The spider monkey’s large body and use of brachiation (their primary method of locomotion) allow for efficient travel over long distances. They move from tree to tree throughout the day to find ripe fruit; once a given food resource (fruit tree) has been exhausted, they continue on in search of another. Because of this, they are never in one place for long. Therefore, they offer another valuable asset in seed dispersal by depositing the ingested seeds in locations far away from the parent tree.

Clearly spider monkeys play a vital role in the ecosystems that they inhabit. Unfortunately, the survival of their species is being threatened by the effects of human activity. As mentioned above, spider monkeys have large ranging areas and spend much of their time in the upper levels of the forest canopy. Therefore, they use loud vocalizations to stay in contact with other individuals in their group, as well as warn others of potential danger. Their loud vocalizations and large body size, while beneficial in some aspects, also serve as a disadvantage by making them an easy target for the humans who hunt them. Spider monkeys have slow birth rates, which makes their populations especially susceptible to the negative impacts of hunting. In fact, they are often the first Neotropical primates to disappear from an area being impacted by human hunting.

Part of the PPS mission is to raise awareness about the grave effects of deforestation and the illegal entrapment/trade of wild animals. Unless there is a rise in global awareness, and these human practices come to an end, the threat of extinction will only continue to grow. In fact, conservationists report that 60% of the world’s primate species are in danger of extinction, with 75% already in steady decline (Estrada et al., 2017). If not altered, the dangers that humans pose on spider monkeys via hunting and deforestation could lead to the extinction of not only the spider monkey, but also countless other plant and animal species in the Neotropics. Thus, understanding the vital role that spider monkeys play in the environment only emphasizes the importance of protecting their species, and therefore preserving the biodiversity of the ecosystems they inhabit.

Works Cited:

• Dew, J. L.,  “Spider Monkeys as Seed Dispersers”.  Spider Monkeys: Behavior, Ecology, andEvolution of the Genus Ateles. Edited by Christina Campbell. New York: Cambridge University Press, 2008. Print, pp. 155-182. 
• Estrada, Alejandro, et al., “Impending extinction crisis of the World’s Primates: Why Primates Matter.” Science Advances, vol. 3, no. 1, 2017, http://advances.sciencemag.org/conten t/3/1/e1600946. Accessed 6 May 2018.
• Link, Andres, and Di Fiore, Anthony. “Seed Dispersal by Spider Monkeys and Its Importance in the Maintenance of Neotropical Rain-Forest Diversity.” Journal of Tropical Ecology, vol. 22, no. 3, 2006, pp. 235-246, doi:10.1017/S0266467405003081. Accessed 7 May 2018. 

Intern Kaylee: Special Topic
Social Interactions Among Marmosets

At Pacific Primate Sanctuary (PPS) we currently provide refuge for three different species of marmosets: the white-tufted eared marmoset (Callithrix jacchus), the black-tufted eared marmoset (Callithrix penicillata), and Wied’s marmoset (Callithrix kuhlii). All three of these species occur in the scrub forests of Brazil. It has been argued that pure Wied’s marmoset was the original marmoset species occurring in this location, and that the white-tufted eared marmoset and the black-tufted eared marmoset have been introduced. There is now a confused picture of hybrids between these species, as intermediates occur among them in the wild. Knowing that these three species intermingle and can coexist helps us to better understand the animals in our care.

All marmosets, including the thee species we care for, have claws, instead of flat nails, and do not have prehensile tails. Their sizes average between 225g and 453 grams and around 50cm in length (including their 30cm long tail). The average lifespan of these monkeys is 15 years, although many of the marmosets at PPS have lived to be much older. Marmosets are arboreal (live in the trees) and use quadrupedal running, vertical clinging, and leaping from branch to branch for locomotion. Their claws are especially well designed for these methods of locomotion. Marmosets are diurnal (active during the day) and generally settle in for the night around one hour before sunset. Housing the three different species of marmosets together works well because they each have very similar lifestyles and behaviors. We regularly see interspecies communication and have had great success pairing different species of marmosets. All three of the marmoset species utilize the same vocalizations, body language, and facial expressions. We not only observe these monkeys performing the same behaviors on their own, but we also see them interact with each other in different areas of the Sanctuary by calling to each other. Marmosets often perform whirr/trill calls and chirps to other marmosets to help keep track of each other and to alert others when they see a favorite food item, or if they are startled by a bird flying by their Enclosure.

Marmosets are able to form associations with a variety of species, and housing them together can be a form of social enrichment. When animals live in an Enclosure, providing a social, dynamic and varied environment is crucial. PPS can consider housing different marmoset species with each other. There are only two Wied’s marmosets currently living at PPS, and they are not a good match for each other, so without the option of pairing with another species, neither of them would be able to have a partner. We currently care for two mixed-species social pairs at the Sanctuary. One pair includes Davis, a vasectomized male Wied’s marmoset, and Mariette, a female white-tufted eared marmoset. A second pair consists of Otis, a vasectomized, white-tufted eared male, and Dyna, a black-tufted eared marmoset female. The staff at the Sanctuary are also currently working on pairing a vasectomized male white-tufted eared marmoset, Ernesto, with Allegra, a female black-tufted eared marmoset. As with every pairing, regardless of species, there are many steps we take to ensure that the well-being of each individual monkey is considered. Being aware of the different species’ social capabilities, and natural environment, helps PPS to provide “refuge and rehabilitation, creating naturalistic habitats where displaced primates can recover and form social groups”.

References

• Rylands, Anthony B. Marmosets and Tamarins Systematics, Behaviour, and Ecology. Oxford Science Publications: Oxford University Press, 1993.
• Ruivo, Eric Bairrão, editor. EAZA Husbandry Guidelines for Callitrichidae. 2nd ed., Beauval Zoo, 2010.
• “History and Mission.” Pacific Primate Sanctuary, www.pacificprimate.org/history.htm.

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

Primate Update July 2017

The Anthropocene Epoch- The 6th Mass Extinction is Underway

In the last 100 years, scientists conservatively estimate that at least 200 vertebrate species have gone extinct.  The average or “background” extinction rate is about 2 species per 100 years.  The current rate of species extinction is between 100 to1,000 times higher than the background rate.   These alarming figures verify that the 6th Mass extinction is already well underway. Even more disturbing, the current extinction event is between 10 to 100 times bigger than any of the previous 5 mass extinctions, and is the only known mass extinction of plant species in addition to animal species.

Mass Extinction is defined as “The extinction of a large number of species within a relatively short period of geological time, thought to be due to factors such as a catastrophic global event or widespread environmental change that occurs too rapidly for most species to adapt.”  

Many scientists are referring to our current time as the Anthropocene Epoch, meaning “human era”, it is viewed as the period during which human activity has been the dominant influence on climate and the environment.  The “Anthropocene Extinction”, as the current event is often called, is an apt name, as 99% of the currently threatened species are at risk because of human activity.  The human population is exploding at an unprecedented rate, from 1 billion in 1800, to 2 billion in 1930 to over 7 billion people today.  Never before has a single population of vertebrate animals grown so much or so fast, and had such a devastating impact.  Overexploitation, habitat degradation, deforestation, introduction of invasive species, pollution, and climate change are just a few of the disastrous forces that we are inflicting on our planet. Clearing forests for palm oil plantations is currently one of the largest causes of deforestation and species loss.  According to the World Wildlife Fund, an area the equivalent size of 300 football fields of rainforest is cleared each hour to make way for palm oil production. Noted Biologist and author, Edward Wilson, calculated that if the current rate of human disturbance continues, half of Earth’s higher lifeforms will be extinct by 2100.

 

Many people are aware that species such as Orangutans, Cheetahs, and Black Rhinos are endangered and facing possible extinction. However, it is not just threatened and endangered species that are at risk, even species listed as “least concern” by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) are declining at a rapid rate. In a recent study, researchers examined a sample of 27,600 vertebrate species, including mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians all over the world.  The study revealed that over 30% of all species studied are experiencing considerable population declines. In the last 40 years, we have lost over 50% of the individual animals that once shared our planet, a staggering, catastrophic, heartbreaking loss of life.

Non-Human Primates in particular, are struggling to survive.  Earlier this year, a team of 31 primatologists analyzed all 504 known primate species. They discovered that 60% of all primate species are threatened with extinction, and 75% of all primate species are decreasing globally. Cotton Top Tamarins, a species rescued by Pacific Primate Sanctuary, are classified as Critically Endangered; they have lost over 80% of their population in the last 20 years.  They have also been placed on the list of 25 most endangered primates in the world, and their population continues to decline.  Black-handed spider monkeys, another species cared for at PPS, are currently classified as Endangered.

Every species plays an important role in their native habitat, acting as predator and prey to many other species.  Ecosystems rely on a delicate web of interconnected life forms, and if one species disappears, then others are likely to do so as well. If Humans continue to practice Ecocide (the extensive destruction of the natural environment), then it is likely that current extinction rates will only increase and ecosystems will fall apart and collapse.  Earth cannot sustain life if ecosystems fail— our world and all living beings are in extreme danger. The industrial world must recognize what has been done to the Earth. We are the ones who have created the crisis. It is past time to make a unified effort to heal the planet.  Knowledge is power— do your research, shop ethically, boycott products containing palm oil, and take steps to reduce your carbon footprint.  Make your voice heard— sign/start petitions, and demand that your government representatives work towards policy changes that support the environment. There are many organizations, like Pacific Primate Sanctuary, doing good in the world, and working towards a better future.  By supporting PPS, you are supporting positive global change.  Please help us to continue providing a place of peace and healing to threatened and endangered primates by volunteering or donating: http://pacificprimate.org/help.htm

It is going to take a change in consciousness, an immense, determined effort to save our planet, and it will require all of us. The suggestions above are small things we can all do to slow the rates of ecological destruction and help shift the paradigm— but they are no longer enough. It is time to take a stand for our Earth and for all the life-forms we coexist with. Please spread the word, share this article with your friends and family, start a conversation. The more people who are thinking, talking, and responding to this catastrophe, the greater chance we have to create change on a personal and global level. Humans must reverse the current trends, eradicate ecocide; solutions must be found— and soon. 

Sources:
1. http://m.pnas.org/content/early/2017/07/05/1704949114.full.pdf
2. https://www.nytimes.com/2017/07/11/climate/mass-extinction-animal-species.html?smtyp=cur
3. https://news.mongabay.com/2017/07/ongoing-mass-extinction-causing-biological-annihilation-new-study-says/http://www.biologicaldiversity.org/programs/biodiversity/elements_of_biodiversity/extinction_crisis/
4. https://www.immortal.org/10260/sixth-mass-holocene-extinction/http://www.biologicaldiversity.org/programs/population_and_sustainability/extinction/index.html
5. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Holocene_extinction
6. http://advances.sciencemag.org/content/3/1/e1600946.fullhttps://www.nytimes.com/2017/01/18/science/almost-two-thirds-of-primate-species-near-extinction-scientists-find.html

HAWAIIAN VALUES

The Hawaiian ancestors adhered to a set of values that guided their daily lives. These beliefs and principles have been passed on, through the generations, and are still an important part of traditional Hawaiian society today.  In this, and ongoing issues of Primate Update, we explore how the Sanctuary embodies traditional Hawaiian perspectives and practices.
 
Ha’aha’a: Humble, unpretentious, modest, unobtrusive
Kaona or hidden meaning: “The interconnectedness of the universe means all elements are dependent upon each other. Humility allows a person to perceive and experience that connection which in turn will allow these elements to work together for the benefit of the of the individual and the Ohana.”₁

Ha‘aha‘a is the value of humility, which teaches us to respect all others as equals.  Every part of a family, a work team, or an ecosystem is integral. There is not one part that is more important, or more valuable than others.  Ha’aha’a instructs us to respect the contributions of others, as well as ourselves.  Be humble, modest, and share your thoughts. Allow others to contribute, and be ready to contribute in return.

At Pacific Primate Sanctuary, Ha’aha’a is a highly respected value.  Our humility allows us to work together as a team, learning from one another, and utilizing each of our unique skills.  The Sanctuary could not function without each member of the team, from Support Staff Volunteers, to Resident Interns, to Management.  We must be humble to learn and to serve the monkeys. We recognize the intrinsic value of all the beings on earth, and treat the monkeys as equals, deserving of respect and compassion.  Ha’aha’a is a value that can help us to heal the world.  

1. https://www.hemakeewaa.org/more-on-core-values
2. http://www.managingwithaloha.com/19-values-of-aloha/haahaa/
3. https://kapakulture.wordpress.com/2013/02/22/hawaiian-word-of-the-day-haahaa/

HOW 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 philanthropic program.  Each time you do a search using GoodSearch, a small contribution will be made to PPS!  Larger donations are made to PPS when you order from one of the many participating online stores, using GoodShop.

GoodShop
GoodShop is THE go-to place to find all those coupon codes and promo codes on the web for thousands of stores from The Gap, Best Buy, Expedia, Target, Apple and more!  So, don’t ever miss a chance to save a bit of money. AND, when you shop through Goodshop, a percentage of what you spend is donated to Pacific Primate Sanctuary!

AmazonSmile
AmazonSmile is a simple and automatic way for you to support Pacific Primate Sanctuary every time you shop at Amazon, at no cost to you. When you shop at smile.amazon.com, you’ll find the exact same low prices, vast selection and convenient shopping experience as Amazon.com, with the added bonus that Amazon will donate a portion of the purchase price to PPS. Go to smile.amazon.com, and select Pacific Primate Sanctuary as your charity, or you can click on the following link:  https://smile.amazon.com/ch/99-0285731


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:  pacificprimatesanctuary@gmail.com

How to Contribute Directly
We rely on and deeply appreciate your continued partnership. Please 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

 

“Malama ‘Ola the Monkeys” and help us provide food, medicine and supplies for the monkeys at
Pacific Primate Sanctuary and contribute to the care of the
Beings with whom we share the Earth!

  

RESIDENT INTERNSHIP

The Resident Internship at Pacific Primate Sanctuary is an in-depth, immersion experience. The program facilitates learning about New World primates and animal sanctuary management on an intimate, all-encompassing level. Interns are trained by experienced members of our staff in all aspects of New World primate care. Training is tailored for each Intern and progress is evaluated at each stage of instruction. In time, Interns may be awarded Primary Animal Caregiver Certification by senior personnel, after successfully acquiring a high level of competence, skill, and expertise in primate care, record keeping, and facility management. The learning process never truly ends and the scope and breadth of the Intern’s knowledge and responsibility grow over time.  The Internship is divided into three distinct training Modules.

In the first Module, Interns learn how to provide daily care, enrichment, and nurturing to the monkeys.  This includes preparing food, outfitting and cleaning enclosures, and maintaining the Sanctuary facility. They also learn about primate behavior and communication. Interns read and review relevant texts and articles and present short summaries, along with current primate status reports for PPS monthly staff meetings, and prepare the daily AM and PM status shift reports in SOAP format. In module 1, Interns learn to edit, update, and create new manual documents.  Intern Holly arrived in June, and is currently in Module 1 of her training.  Holly recently graduated from Central Washington University, earning a Bachelor’s degree with a double major in Biology and Primate Behavior and Ecology.  The PPS Internship was recommended to her by one of her professors, Dr. Lori Sheeran, who is on the PPS Advisory Board. This is Holly’s first experience caring for primates, and she is readily absorbing the new information that she is learning.

Module 2 focuses on Emergency Care and Behavioral Conditioning. Interns start Emergency Care training, becoming proficient in capture, transfer, restraint, handling, and specialized individual care. In this module, Interns get specialized medical training: calculating drug dosages and administering medication, performing physical examinations, checking vital signs (temperature, respiratory, and pulse rate), providing subcutaneous fluid therapy and intensive care (heat, fluids, special diet, wound care, etc.). They play an intimate part in veterinary consultations, treatment plans, and follow-up. Interns also study and observe behavioral conditioning techniques. Interns submit proposals for their in-depth independent project, which will contribute to the care and understanding of the primates at PPS.  Intern Lauren, who arrived in February, recently completed her Module 2 training.  Lauren has a Bachelor’s degree in Anthropology, and spent 6 months caring for capuchins and squirrel monkeys in the Dominican Republic prior to coming to PPS.

In the third Module Interns participate in Sanctuary Management.  This consists of training new Volunteers, monitoring social welfare of the animals, and ensuring that the records and reporting on the daily status of the primates are thorough and current. Interns acquire skills in Colony Management, making recommendations for new pairings and corridor movements.  In this module, Interns also focus on their Independent Project.  Interns will become certified as a Primary Animal Caregiver, make the transition to Senior Intern, and finally become a Mentor Caregiver, helping to train the next Senior Interns.  Jessica and Gini are Senior Interns, who both arrived in September 2016.  Gini is from Australia, and has a Certificate III in Captive Animals, along with experience caring for exotic animals at the Taronga Zoo. Jessica has a Master’s in Psychology.  She volunteered at two different primate sanctuaries prior to coming to PPS, working with capuchin monkeys and lemurs. 

A great value of the PPS Internship program is the training and education that we provide to the next generation of conservationists, environmentalists, and ecologists. Mentored Interns are taught how to provide compassionate care to vulnerable and endangered species and comprehend the global issues threatening their populations.  Our mutually beneficial, immersive Internship program offers a unique and valuable learning experience to Interns, and exceptional animal care for the primates at the Sanctuary.

Pacific Primate Sanctuary has trained 42 Resident Interns over the past 13 years and the curriculum for this program has deepened and expanded over time. The insight and understanding gained from involvement with PPS, impacts the future personal and professional lives of the Interns and Volunteers and affects an ever-widening circle of people with whom they interact. Interns leave PPS trained to be stewards of our precious planet and caregivers of the Beings we share it with.

CONTINUING EDUCATION

Special Topic: Intern Lauren
Spider Monkey Habitat Use and Ranging Patterns

Spider monkeys live in the upper canopy of the rainforest, gravitating towards areas with tall evergreen and semi deciduous tropical forests. Their average home range is 150 to 350 hectares in size. This area includes where they sleep, eat, and spend most of their time. Spider monkeys tend to stay within their home ranges, in individual core areas. These are smaller overlapping divisions in the home range that are not generally exclusive and exist to decrease competition due to the broad spread of resources in their environment. They move throughout their environment to increase their access to resources and limit risks from predation.

By considering where and why animals move within their environment, we can understand more about their resource use as well as social structures. Spider monkey troupes tend to sleep together in a large centralized tree. By staying in a group, they are safer from nocturnal predators. These trees are usually located near the center of the home range, while individual core areas clump around patches of fruit trees. Having a meeting place in the middle of their home range allows the group to share important information about resources.

Most of the movement seen in wild spider monkeys is due to differing availability and distribution of fruit trees in different areas. As the seasons change, and different fruits come into season, the group will change its ranging patterns. These movement patterns are inconsistent and decrease during times of low fruit availability, during which spider monkeys begin to rely more on secondary food sources such as leaves and bark. Groups will even come down from the trees for mineral licks or water when necessary.

Terrestrial behavior in spider monkeys puts the group at higher risk for predation. Their predators include the harpy and crested eagles, jaguars, and pumas. Younger members are also at risk from smaller birds and mammals as well as boa constrictors. When a spider monkey feels threatened, they will often display a behavior called branch shaking. They will also keep look out for other group members as they make use of terrestrial resources.

For the most part, spider monkeys avoid areas they know to be inhabited by predators. This behavior affects their ranging patterns and limits their resources further. To avoid competition between groups, male dominated patrol groups spend time along the outer borders of the territory. Due to the distance between food sources, they must keep a close eye on clumps of fruiting trees within their home range.

With limited food sources, spider monkeys are confined to specific areas, some of which are prone to deforestation and development by humans. As their habitats shrink, their populations do as well, making them a vulnerable species.

For spider monkeys in the wild, much of life revolves around food. It is no different for the spider monkeys at PPS. Carlos and Montana are offered different food based enrichments to mimic their wild foraging behaviors. These include placing parts of their diets in different areas of their enclosure as well as hiding food in Ti leaf bundles or buckets filled with hay, which allows them to forage.

Works Cited:

• Campbell, Christina J., ed. Spider Monkeys: The Biology, Behaviour, and Ecology of the Genus Ateles. New York: Cambridge U Press, 2008. Print. Cambridge Studies in Biological and Evolutionary Anthropology.
• IUCN 2016. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Version 2016-3. . Downloaded on 07 December 2016.

 

Special Topic: Intern Gini
How Capuchins Use Objects and Tools

Capuchins have long been known for being masters in the complex manipulation of objects. Tool use was first thought to be an unnatural behavior in captive primates prompted by humans. However, extensive observations of wild apes have shown that tool use is actually a behavior that is passed from parent to offspring in the wild.  Capuchins have not been studied in the wild as extensively as apes. However, impressive achievements with tool use in a captive setting indicate that these skills would also occur in their natural habitat.

Nut cracking by capuchins in captive environments is mentioned in reports dating as far back as the sixteenth century. *Nut cracking is a behavior in which a capuchin will place a hard-shelled nut on the ground or a fallen branch, pick up a large rock, lift it high over their head and force it down onto the nut. This behavior is repeated until the shell cracks allowing the capuchin to pick out the nut inside. It wasn’t until very recently (within the last few decades) that primatologists “discovered” the spontaneous use of stones to crack nuts in a semi-free ranging group of tufted capuchin monkeys. 
(*Videos of Capuchin tool use in the wild can be found at the following links:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J0iZkyL4UlM https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zc8NUS218qg )

Capuchins are master manipulators, and with this comes intellectual thought and problem solving. Tool use is an advanced thought process, which enables capuchins to reduce foraging time, reach food items they couldn't ordinarily reach, and to retrieve hard to find or access foods. Capuchins have been reported using long sticks to extend their reach. A study took place where a container was filled with semi-liquid foods such as applesauce, yogurt, and syrup.  The containers had tiny openings, too small for the capuchins fingers. Objects were placed in the room such as sticks, straws, dowels, bolts and branches. Capuchins are able to easily master this task, utilizing sticks or straws to get to the food.  Even very young capuchins (under 1 year old) are successful in this task.  This depicts their vast knowledge and skill in manipulation and their perspective of the world around them.

Miracle and Prospero, the two capuchins at Pacific Primate Sanctuary, are provided with hard shelled nuts, which allows them to problem solve in order to access the nut inside. Problem solving is no easy task and requires patience and skill. They use various techniques, including biting with their strong jaws and hard teeth and hitting the nut against a hard surface. Prospero the male capuchin, takes a little longer to crack nuts than his partner Miracle, who usually cracks hers rather quickly. Prospero has been observed watching Miracle and her technique, a practice used frequently in the wild by infants and adolescents. Although Prospero is a fully grown mature adult male, he still exhibits the same curiosity and desire to learn as a young capuchin.  He is able to gain new skills by imitating Miracle, and utilizing new techniques to increase his success in retrieving food items.

Works Cited:
Research paper: Capuchin monkey tool use: Overview and implications. Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/227525977_Capuchin_monkey_tool_use_Overview_and_implications [accessed May 6, 2017].
Dorothy M. Fragaszy, Elisabetta Visalberghi, Linda Marie Fedigan. “The Complete Capuchin – The Biology of the Genus Cebus.” The United Kingdom, Cambridge, University press, 2004.
Aversi-Ferreira RAGMF, Maior RS, Aziz A, Ziermann JM, Nishijo H, et al. (2014) Anatomical Analysis of Thumb Opponency Movement in the Capuchin Monkey (Sapajus sp). PLoS ONE 9(2): e87288. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0087288

Special Topic: Intern Jessica
Primate Diets

Providing proper nutrition to captive primates can be difficult for a variety of reasons, including inherent differences between captive and wild settings and differences in amount and type of food available. In the wild, the search for food may take up the majority of a monkey’s day, requiring time spent both exploring their environment in order to locate food sources and devising ways to obtain those food sources once they have been located. This can include activities such as travelling across forests, hunting, cracking open seeds, removing insects from holes in trees, etc. In addition to energy spent obtaining food, food sources are highly variable by season, and thus a primate’s diet is largely varied, and includes things such as animals, insects, fruits, vegetable, leaves, and gums.

In terms of locating food, wild primates are required to expend a high amount of energy on a daily basis to ensure they obtain enough food; capuchin monkeys, for example, may travel for miles each day across the forest tree-tops. Because this is not possible in a captive setting, energy requirements must be adjusted when calculating nutritional needs. While captive monkeys may not have to travel as far for their food, it is possible to simulate wild-like forging behaviors in the way that food is presented. For example, one form of enrichment the monkeys at PPS are particularly fond of, is when food items are strung onto Ti leaves.  These leaves, which are now covered with small treats, are hung in the monkey’s enclosures.  This simulates natural foraging behaviors in which wild primates would have to pluck small fruits or seeds off of the plants they are growing on.  Similarly, we will sometimes provide whole branches from a fruiting tree, such as mulberry or strawberry guava, to the capuchins and spider monkeys, allowing them to pick the fruits themselves.

As mentioned, wild primate diets are widely varied, and often based on seasonal availability. Captive populations, including the monkeys at PPS, typically receive commercial primate diets, which have been specially formulated to meet the full nutritional needs of the animals. While this has the benefit of ensuring that all vitamin and mineral needs are met, it lacks similarity to what animals would eat in the wild.  Because of this, the monkeys at PPS also receive a variety of other fresh foods such as fruits, vegetables, grains, and nuts. As we grow a wide variety of tropical fruits and vegetables on site, the monkeys are able to experience a seasonal shift in foods. Recently, for example, the capuchin and spider monkeys have been enjoying Brazilian and Surinam cherries and ice cream bean which just now began to fruit. The customized diets not only ensure their dietary needs of the monkeys are met, but also allow them to experience a life as similar to their natural habitat as possible.

Works Cited:
Wolfehsohn, Sarah and Honess, Paul. (2005). Handbook of Primate Husbandry and Welfare. Blackwell Publishing
Dorothy M. Fragaszy, Elisabetta Visalberghi, Linda Marie Fedigan. “The Complete Capuchin – The Biology of the Genus Cebus.” The United Kingdom, Cambridge, University press, 2004.
Maxwell, H. (2009). Inexpensive Enclosures for Small Sanctuaries: Alternatives to Million Dollar Environments. Oxford
The Simian Society of America. (1995). Primate Care.

















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