Insights into social relationships among female black howler monkeys Alouatta pigra at Palenque National Park, Mexico

Female black howler monkeys (Alouatta pigra) at Palenque National Park, Mexico, exhibit highly affiliative social relationships with minimal agonistic interactions, challenging previous assumptions about their social dynamics. A 14-month study involving over 900 hours of focal observations and 5,400 scan samples revealed that females in one group maintained stronger bonds than those in another, with relationship strength increasing upon the birth of an infant. The temporary presence of extragroup females suggests a more dynamic social system than previously thought, resembling patterns seen in red howler monkeys (A. seniculus) rather than mantled howlers (A. palliata). This research sheds light on the nuanced social behavior of this endangered species within its UNESCO-listed habitat.

Van BELLE, S., Estrada, A., & Strier, K. B. (2011). Insights into social relationships among female black howler monkeys Alouatta pigra at Palenque National Park, Mexico. Current Zoology, 57(1), 1–7. https://doi.org/10.1093/czoolo/57.1.1