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Scientists in Panama have discovered capuchin monkeys kidnapping and carrying howler monkey infants, a shocking behavior never before witnessed. Over 80 cameras monitoring capuchin tool use captured at least 11 instances of this between 2022 and 2023. While the motivations remain unclear, the howler infants generally died, likely from starvation. Researchers hypothesize a possible confused parental instinct in one capuchin, leading others to copy the behavior. The study highlights the surprising behavioral variation within the same primate species.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.