Coexistence Between Humans and Capuchins (Sapajus libidinosus): Comparing Observational Data with Farmers’ Perceptions of Crop Losses

Abstract

Foraging on anthropogenic food by wildlife is a prevalent form of human–wildlife interaction. Few studies have evaluated the impact of wildlife crop foraging in Neotropical areas where small-scale agriculture is practiced and the habitat has not been heavily altered. Our objectives were 1) to evaluate the perceptions of small-scale farmers living in southern Piaui (Brazil) of the impact of bearded capuchins (Sapajus libidinosus) on their crops and 2) quantify crop losses due to the monkeys and other vertebrates. In 2013, we interviewed 78 residents about the impact of capuchins on their crops. Subsequently, we recorded foraging by vertebrate animals in corn fields, and evaluated farmers’ crop losses. The farmers showed a positive attitude toward the capuchins and their perceptions of wildlife behavior were generally accurate. The impact of wildlife varied in relation to the field’s location, number of foraging individuals, and time spent foraging, as well as plant growth patterns. Vertebrates consumed between 23 and 100 % of the crops. Capuchins consumed the majority of crop losses, though birds consumed up to a third. The presence of a watchman reduced losses from wildlife by 66 %. In conclusion, although capuchins forage flexibly on anthropogenic crops, in a society relying on subsistence agriculture, their impact is perceived to be moderate overall. Peaceful coexistence between humans and monkeys favors conservation actions targeted toward protection of the capuchins and their habitat, both of which are seriously threatened by industrial agriculture in this region.