Predatory attack on a bearded capuchin monkey by a Boa constrictor

2025/04/15 by Tatiane Valença, Emiliane Cardoso, Tiago Falótico
Psychology · Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology · Agricultural and Biological Sciences · #Primate Behavior and Ecology #Animal Vocal Communication and Behavior #Animal Behavior and Reproduction

paper · pdf · doi:10.1007/s10329-025-01191-7

Abstract

Predation influences foraging strategies, as primates must avoid being preyed on while feeding. Some populations of capuchin monkeys are the only neotropical primates that customarily use the ground for nut-cracking. This time-consuming and focus-demanding foraging activity may increase susceptibility to predation events. However, there is currently no data on predation in tool-using Sapajus populations. We report a snake's (Boa constrictor) predatory attack on a bearded capuchin monkey (S. libidinosus) in a tool-using population, as well as the other monkeys' alarm calling and threat displays. We confirm these monkeys' predation vulnerability and discuss how they balance foraging requirements with predation risk.

Citations

• Predation of Alouatta puruensis by Boa constrictor
• Observational Study of Behavior: Sampling Methods

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