Capuchin monkeys perplex scientists by kidnapping howler monkey babies
- Capuchin monkeys were filmed carrying howler monkey infants in Panama between 2022 and 2023.
- Researchers conducted a study based on footage from over 80 cameras and found no signs of aggressive or predatory behavior.
- This unexpected kidnapping behavior is being studied to understand its potential cultural significance and the impacts of environmental conditions.
In early 2022, unusual behavior was observed among capuchin monkeys on Jicarón Island, Panama, where they were seen carrying howler monkey infants. Researchers from the Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior and the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute had set up cameras to study capuchin tool use when they unexpectedly captured footage of these kidnappings occurring over the span of approximately 15 months. Scientists noted that at least 11 howler babies were abducted by capuchins, which led them to question the motivations behind this unprecedented behavior. The footage revealed capuchins carrying the infants on their backs while engaging in tool-related activities, raising concerns about the well-being of the babies. Many of these howler infants later died, likely from starvation, as they were not provided maternal care or sustenance. Experiments showed no signs of aggression towards the infants, suggesting that these actions were not predatory. The research team is currently exploring whether this behavior may be a type of cultural fad or a byproduct of the unique environmental conditions on the island, which could lead to boredom among the capuchins. Discussions among researchers revealed that monkeys in general have been known to adopt abandoned infants from their species or others, but in this case, the capuchins were simply transporting them without showing evidence of nurturing. This behavior presents an intriguing glimpse into the lives of capuchin monkeys and their potential for complex social interactions, and understanding it may provide insight into broader questions about animal culture and behavior. The differing ecological factors on Jicarón compared to the mainland are thought to influence these monkeys' behavior, highlighting the biodiversity issue often explored in animal behavior studies. As scientists continue to analyze the footage and data from their research, they hope to paint a clearer picture of what is driving the capuchins to engage in this bizarre act of carrying howler monkey infants.