The Social Life of Owl Monkeys

Abstract

The study of owl monkeys provides an excellent opportunity for understanding the behavioral correlates of pair-living, sexual monogamy, and cooperative behavior. However, the nocturnal habits of most Aotus species make it challenging to study their social behavior in the wild. An integrated approach combining research in the field, seminatural conditions, and the laboratory has advanced our knowledge of their social behavior. Owl monkeys’ social behaviors reflect high levels of cooperation within groups, whereas the recent documentation of a subpopulation of solitary floaters in Aotus azarae has prompted the investigation of the intra- and intergroup social dynamics from a new perspective. Intrasexual competition, and the behavioral, vocal, and olfactory mechanisms associated with it, surely influences the serial monogamous mating system of the genus. Reproductive adults are highly cooperative in the care of infants; females usually limit infant care to nursing, while males carry, play, groom, maintain proximity, and share food with them.