Aspects of Male Competition in Colobus vellerosus: Preliminary Data on Male and Female Loud Calling, and Infant Deaths After a Takeover

Abstract

Male Colobus vellerosus are the main participants in intergroup encounters, and lead incursions in neighboring groups during which they attack infants. Extragroup copulations, all-male groups, and male takeover occur in the species. Here, we provide additional information on behaviors associated with male reproductive competition in Colobus vellerosus. We examined 1 resident male loud calling and participation in intergroup encounters in relation to a takeover. We also report a second case of takeover that led to the death of the former resident male and the death of 2 male infants, presumably as a result of aggression from the all-male group. The new resident male wounded the third infant of the group, which apparently died after its mother abandoned it. During the period characterized by the attacks on the infant and after its disappearance, females initiated and participated in loud call bouts with the new resident male. We examine the possible functions of female loud calling, and suggest that in this context, it might force the resident male to call along to indicate his presence.