Capuchin monkeys are one of the most widely distributed genera of primates in Central and South America. Capuchins captivate the imagination of scientists and the lay public alike with their creative and highly variable behaviour, their grace and power in action, and their highly developed social character. In this, the first scholarly book devoted to the biology of the genus Cebus (Primates: Platyrrhine), the taxonomy, distribution, life history, ecology, anatomy, development, perception, cognition, motor skills, social and sexual behaviour of these monkeys are summarised. The book also describes how humans have viewed, used and studied these monkeys from ancient times to the present. The authors explicitly organismic and inclusive treatment provides a picture in unparalleled detail of the capuchin over its lifetime for all those with an interest in these fascinating animals.
• Deeply integrative treatment linking experimental and field data and linking cross-disciplinary domains of research including anatomy, ecology, psychology and taxonomy • Lavishly illustrated including line drawings and color plates by Stephen Nash and many previously unpublished photographs • Accurate and informative for the specialist, while accessible for the general reader
Contents
Preface; Acknowledgements; Prologue; Colour plates; Part I. Capuchins in Nature: 1. Taxonomy and distribution with Anthony Rylands; 2. Behavioural ecology; 3. Community ecology; 4. Life history and demography; Part II. Behavioural Biology: 5. The body; 6. Development; 7. Motor skills; Part III. Behavioural Psychology: 8. Perceiving the world: memory and perception; 9. Engaging the world: exploration and problem-solving; 10. Fancy manipulators; 11. Living together; 12. Erotic artists; 13. Learning together; Epilogue: The (in)complete capuchin; References; Appendices: I. Foods eaten; II. Field sites; III. Hematological and physiological values; IV. Brief list of management references.
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