Spider monkey species (not pictured) at the Brevard Zoo – Photo: Khairil Azhar Junos/Shutterstock.com
Researchers from Florida Tech are examining novel social behaviors in spider monkeys at the Brevard Zoo, thanks to an unusual embrace.
Strangers and non-related spider monkeys have been observed cuddling in novel pro-social behaviors that scientists have never observed previously.
Due to these exchanges, Florida Tech is collaborating with the Brevard Zoo, home to a growing population of spider monkeys, to conduct fresh study aimed at elucidating the behavior of the monkeys.
According to Darby Proctor, an associate psychology professor at Florida Tech who specializes in studying spider monkeys, “this is the most pro-social species I have ever worked with,” when a wild animal approaches a stranger and gives it a hug.
Proctor is delving into the behavior in collaboration with other university psychology professors, following the rescue of several infant spider monkeys from the illicit pet trade and their introduction to the Brevard Zoo.
“We’re seeing some really complex behavior from this species that hasn’t been documented yet,” added assistant professor Kate Talbot, a fellow researcher at Florida Tech’s psychology department. “They’re really welcoming outside monkeys into our troupe very well.”
Current research indicates that while these behaviors are uncommon in primates, scientists are observing things like caressing fearful babies and even adopting them into established troupes.
“Sometimes, they will show you hints of what you need to research,” Proctor stated. “Right now, I’m feeling very much that we need to research the extent of their pro-sociality.”
These research are all being conducted at the Melbourne local zoo. Spider monkeys can access the cognitive research center using sky bridges erected around the facility. The animals choose when to take part in this format-based research that these professors are conducting.
In order to advance their research, Talbot and Proctor are also creating brand-new tablets for the spider monkey species. The tablets with programming, according to Proctor, can assist students in comprehending “the extent of their cognitive abilities.” Because spider monkeys are becoming more and more of a global problem, these researchers can learn more about them.
“Wildlife trafficking is the fourth most profitable industry next to guns, drugs, and human trafficking,” said Talbot.
Babies abandoned by their mothers are frequently the result of the illegal pet trade, but the Brevard Zoo has emerged as a refuge for broken families.
The hugs given to total strangers and the hospitable manner reveal a new aspect of the species to experts.
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Born and raised in South Florida, Krystal is a recent graduate from the University of Miami with professional writing experience at the collegiate and national news outlet levels. She’s a foodie who loves all things travel, the beach, & visiting new places throughout Florida.