Predator avoidance behaviour in the buffy-headed marmoset,Callithrix flaviceps

Abstract

ABSTRACT. The predator avoidance behaviour of a free-ranging group of buffy-headed marmosets, Callithrixflaviceps, was recorded in detail during the course of a long-term study of behavioural ecology at the Fazenda Montes Claros, southeastern Brazil. Four distinct patterns of predator avoidance behaviour, each with specific vocalisations, were recognised and are described here. The selection and use of sleeping sites by the study group are also described. An analysis of the records indicates that these small monkeys are generally most vulnerable to predation by aerial raptors. Variations in the frequency of alarm calls also indicate that the marmosets tend to be more vigilant at higher levels in the forest and when the leaf cover is less extensive. The implications of group size and social structure for both the evolution and the efficacy of the anti-predator behaviour of marmosets are also discussed.

Anti-predator strategies of free-ranging Campbell's monkeys

“…Often, the vocal behav-iour reveals a species' ability to discriminate between threatening and nonthreatening stimuli, including large birds (Seyfarth et al, 1980b) or different snakes (Ramakrishnan et al, 2005). Distinct reactions to aerial and terrestrial predators (as well as to the corresponding alarm call types), mostly vertical locomotion or change in gaze direction, have been reported in several animals living in open habitats (vervet monkeys: Seyfarth et al, 1980a,b;deer (Odocoileus virginianus) : Gese & Grothes, 1995) and in the forest (whitefaced capuchins (Cebus capucinus): Digweed et al, 2005; saddleback and moustached tamarins (Saguinus fuscicollis and S. mystax): Heymann, 1990;Peres, 1993; buffy-headed marmosets (Callithrix flaviceps) : Ferrari & Ferrari, 1990).…”

Freeze or flee? Negative stimuli elicit selective responding

“…For example, upon detection of a predator, marmoset monkeys move rapidly for cover before the motionless freeze (Ferrari & Lopes Ferrari, 1990;Searcy & Caine, 2003). In fact, many species exhibit distinct alarm calls to elicit either freezing or fleeing among group members.…”

Effects of forest structure components on the occurence, group size and density of groups of bare-face tamarin (Saguinus bicolor - primates: Callitrichinae) in Central Amazonia

“…Tamarins have also been documented searching for food in leaves, twigs, and holes in snags, and this has been considered a strategic behaviour for searching for immature insects (Ferrari, 1988). Thorstrom et al (2000) observed that owl species that nest inside empty snags are more strongly affected by predation on their nests.…”

“…The use of habitat by primates can be affected by many factors such as body size, dietary adaptations, changes in forest structure and local weather conditions (Ferrari, 1988). The spatial variation of the forest resources certainly stimulates their use in different ways, and may produce changes in the primate patterns of movement and habitat use.…”