Effects of freely accessible computerized test systems on the spontaneous behaviors and stress level of Guinea baboons (Papio papio)

Abstract

Fagot and Paleressompoulle [Fagot and Paleressompoulle (2009) Behav Res Methods 41: 396-404] described a new automated learning device for monkeys (ALDM) to test the cognitive functions of nonhuman primates within their social groups. However, the impact of the ALDM procedure on animal well-being needs to be investigated. The present study assessed the consequences of ALDM testing on the behavioral repertoire of Guinea baboons (Papio papio) and their stress levels as inferred from measurements of saliva cortisol. Accessibility to ALDM test computers reduced the number of resting periods as well as the number of stereotypies. Lower cortisol levels were also found during ALDM testing. These findings and others demonstrate that ALDM testing has a positive impact on animal well-being and can be considered as a means for behavioral enrichment in captive primates.

Cognitive enrichment and welfare: Current approaches and future directions

“…In contrast, Whitehouse, Micheletta, Powell, Bordier, and Waller (2013) found that participation in CGTs had no significant effect on self-directed behavior (SDB) in socially-housed Sulawesi macaques (Macaca nigra) in a custom-built research center within a zoo. In the laboratory, participation in CGTs was linked to a reduction in salivary cortisol (i.e., a measure of stress) and reduction in SDB in socially-housed guinea baboons, Papio papio (Fagot, Gullstrand, Kemp, Defilles, & Mekaouche, 2014). These discrepant results call for more research on the welfare effects of monkeys using CGTs.…”

“…In large groups it can be difficult to assess which individual/s are using the task and to monitor their progress. Despite these limitations, a series of studies by Fagot and colleagues on guinea baboons (Fagot & Bonté, 2010;Fagot & Paleressompoulle, 2009;Fagot et al, 2014) demonstrate that group-testing is achievable and can have significant positive welfare outcomes. A troop of approximately 26 individuals were allowed free access to a CGT (with a food pellet reward) 24 hrs per day, and individual access to the booth was controlled by baboons wearing microchip implants.…”

Parental Reports on Touch Screen Use in Early Childhood

“…It is very difficult to study language and cognition in children below the age of 3 years. In fact, touch screens have been used with other populations who do not readily follow explicit verbal instructions, including non-human primates, for about 20 years (for example, [15] and more recently [16]). Currently, a number of baby labs in the world are exploring the possibility of adding touch-screen applications to their experimental toolkit (for example, see [17, 18]).…”

Assessment of Social Cognition in Non-human Primates Using a Network of Computerized Automated Learning Device (ALDM) Test Systems

“…ALDM testing also seems beneficial in terms of animal welfare, and reduces the stress level of the participant 3 , see also 7 . The ALDM testing procedure inspired the development of test devices by several research groups working with crested (Macaca nigra) and rhesus (Macaca mulatta) macaques 7,8 and pigeons (Columba livia) 9 .…”