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Investigation of inanimate objects by the greater bushbaby (Otolemur garnettii)

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Abstract

Investigatory behavior with novel, inanimate objects by two groups of four juvenile greater bushbabies (Otolemur garnettii) was examined in the laboratory. Substantial investigatory behavior was shown by all subjects. In the first study, subjects showed interest in a wide variety of nonfood stimulus objects. In the second, subjects displayed sustained interest in and investigation of non-food stimulus objects over three sessions. Bushbabies showed preferences for larger, more manipulable objects and variations in total contact over days. Individual differences were observed in the duration and types of contact with objects. These observations contradict earlier reports that prosimians show little interest in inanimate, non-food objects.

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Author notes

  1. Michael J. Renner

    Present address: Department of Psychology, West Chester University, 19383, West Chester, Pennsylvania, USA

  2. Allyson J. Bennett, Michele L. Ford & Peter J. Pierre

    Present address: Department of Psychology, Memphis State University, 38152, Memphis, Tennessee, USA

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Psychology, Memphis State University, 38152, Memphis, Tennessee, USA

    Michael J. Renner

Authors
  1. Michael J. Renner
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  2. Allyson J. Bennett
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  3. Michele L. Ford
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  4. Peter J. Pierre
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Renner, M.J., Bennett, A.J., Ford, M.L. et al. Investigation of inanimate objects by the greater bushbaby (Otolemur garnettii). Primates 33, 315–327 (1992). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02381193

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02381193

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