Behavioral catalog and enrichment plan for squirrel monkeys (Saimiri sp) at the DAGMA’s Wildlife Passage Home, Cali, Colombia

Abstract

Saimiri is a genus of primates belonging to the Cebidae family known as squirrel monkeys, with a yellowish or coppery fur that covers most of their body, they are victims of species trafficking and their behavior can be affected by captivity conditions. The objective of the research was to carry out a behavioral repertoire and enrichment plan of two squirrel monkeys (Saimiri sp.) under human care at the DAGMA's Wildlife Passage Home (HPFS) in Cali, Colombia. Ethograms were performed under the Ad libitum method and focal animal sampling. In addition, an environmental enrichment plan was designed that involved modifications in the animals' enclosure and food enrichment, which implied a variation in the presentation or content of the usual diet to encourage foraging. They were evaluated on a scale of zero to three according to the interaction of the individual. A behavioral catalog of the individuals was obtained, identifying 15 behaviors; resting and feeding were the activities with the longest duration. For the juveniles, play activity was reported and they responded positively to the environmental and food enrichment offered, observing foraging, exploration and interaction behaviors. This study contributes to the information available on the behavior of primates that, due to their characteristics and geographic distribution, are difficult to access and follow up for research, opening opportunities for the generation of new knowledge in wildlife centers in the country.