Monkey Mystery: Male Capuchins Carry Howler Monkey Infants, Leading to Starvation

Male Capuchin Monkeys in Panama Exhibit Unusual Behavior, Leading to Tragic Consequences Panama City, May 22, 2025 – A recent study published in Current Biology has revealed a surprising and tragic behavior among capuchin monkeys on the Panamanian island of Jicarón. Researchers from the Max Planck Institute for Animal Behavior observed male capuchin monkeys carrying howler monkey infants. This unusual behavior, documented over 15 months using 85 camera traps, raises questions about primate behavior and social dynamics. "We were completely perplexed when we first saw the footage," said Dr. Zoë Goldsborough, lead researcher on the project. "It's a behavior never before seen in wild primates." The study revealed that several male capuchins engaged in this behavior. While there's no evidence the capuchins intended to harm the infants, the lack of maternal care led to the howler monkey infants starving. The researchers hypothesize that the behavior might be linked to boredom or a form of cultural trend within the capuchin population. Given the isolated nature of the Jicarón ecosystem, with no significant human presence or natural predators for the species, this unusual behavior may be a unique response to the environment. The researchers hope that further studies will shed more light on this fascinating and concerning phenomenon. The tragic outcome underscores the importance of understanding and protecting the delicate balance of primate ecosystems.