Read, Watch or Listen

Researchers have documented a bizarre phenomenon on Jicaron Island, Panama: young male capuchin monkeys are kidnapping baby howler monkeys. This unprecedented behavior, first observed in 2022, involves capuchins carrying the infants for days, often resulting in the howler monkeys' deaths from dehydration or starvation. The capuchins don't appear to eat or play with the babies, suggesting a social tradition rather than predation. This behavior, potentially linked to abundant resources and leisure time, raises concerns for the endangered howler monkey population and offers insights into primate social learning and behavioral evolution. The study, published in Current Biology, highlights the surprising adaptability and complexity of animal behavior.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.