Subspecies differences in curiosity and general activity for developing squirrel monkeys.

Abstract

Curiosity and general activity characteristics in different squirrel monkey (Saimiri sciureus) phenotypes were assessed. Ten infant squirrel monkeys, representing 2 subspecies (Bolivian and Colombian) and both genders, were observed on 4 testing sessions during which novel and familiar objects were presented to each subject. No consistent object-contact differences were found between subspecies or genders, but significant subspecies differences were found for the amount of time during each trial that the subjects climbed, remained stationary, vocalized, and showed abnormal behaviors. Familiar objects were handled most often, whereas novel objects that were shiny or yellow were moderately preferred.