Overview

• Scientists observed young male capuchin monkeys on Jicarón Island abducting and carrying baby howler monkeys, a behavior documented for the first time in a study published in Current Biology.
• The behavior began with a single capuchin, nicknamed Joker, in January 2022, and spread to four other males over a 15-month period through social learning.
• Researchers confirmed that all 11 abducted howler infants died, primarily from malnourishment, as the capuchins could not provide the necessary care.
• The predator-free and resource-rich environment on Jicarón is believed to foster innovation and arbitrary social traditions, with this behavior potentially linked to boredom among the capuchins.
• The study raises conservation concerns as howler monkeys on the island are endangered, and researchers are evaluating whether intervention is necessary to prevent further harm.