Behavior Requirements for Self-Sustaining Primate Populations-Some Theoretical Considerations and a Closer Look at Social Behavior

Abstract

This quotation of the pioneering advocate of species adequate systems of animal maintenance in zoos spells out succinctly the essence of our theme. During the last 15 years or so we have witnessed a strongly increasing interest in the behavioral aspects of our dealings with animals in conditions of confinement. It coincides with an almost paradigmatic change, in the Kuhnian sense, in the attitude of science and society toward animals. This is exemplified by the revived scientific consideration of animals as purposely striving aware creatures (e.g., Griffin, 1976). This change in scientific outlook undoubtedly has arisen in connection with and, in turn, feeds the more general concern about the welfare and “rights” of animals under our dominion. Among these, the primates occupy a special position. It has become obvious that their cognitive potentialities and the complexity and flexibility of their behavior have tended to be grossly underestimated in the past.

Museums may maintain specimens “for eternity” through preservative chemicals, but a Zoo’s duty lies in passing on living species to posterity through appropriate breeding techniques. This process involves natural propagation, with all its characteristic behavior patterns. Because of this dimension, Zoos are “Behavior museums.” Heini Hediger (1982)