Predatory threat of harpy eagles for yellow-breasted capuchin monkeys in the Atlantic Forest

Author(s)

Suscke, Priscila ; Verderane, Michele ; de Oliveira, Robson Santos ; Delval, Irene ; Fernandez-Bolanos, Marcelo ; Izar, Patricia

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: PRIMATES; v. 58, n. 1, p. 141-147, JAN 2017.
• Web of Science Citations: 2

Abstract

We describe seven encounters between different harpy eagle individuals (Harpia harpyja) and a group of yellow-breasted capuchin monkeys (Sapajus xanthosternos) in Una Biological Reserve. These interactions lasted 58 min on average. In each of those encounters, the capuchin monkeys used particular behavioral strategies against the harpy eagle that were not employed in reaction to other aerial predators. We did not observe any successful predation events, but after one of those encounters an infant disappeared from the capuchin group. As a whole, these observations indicate that the presence of harpy eagles in the group's home range increases predation risk for capuchin monkeys. The present report also suggests a reoccupation by H. harpyja of this area, as no previous recent records identify harpy eagle occurrence in Una Biological Reserve. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 10/51252-1 - Socioecology of Cebus xanthosternos in an Atlantic Forest area in southern Bahia
• Grantee: Priscila Suscke Gouveia
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate
• FAPESP's process: 12/20107-1 - Maternal warmth and early intimate interactions between mother and infant in wild tufted capuchin monkeys (Sapajus spp)
• Grantee: Michele Pereira Verderane
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Post-Doctoral