Publication Date

Spring 2025

Abstract

Lagothrix lagotricha poeppigii are labelled as endangered with a decreasing population trend by the IUCN. Woolly monkeys are primarily frugivores and play an important role in seed dispersal in their territories. Their presence in an ecosystem supports plant growth significantly and their decreasing population presents a further risk of loss of biodiversity for the Ecuadorian Amazon.In this study a semi-wild troop of Lagothrix lagotricha poeppigii, woolly monkeys, on Sumak Allpa island were assessed for their slated translocation to Limoncocha Biological Reserve in December. There are few guidelines for primate reintroductions that have been proven to predict success. As such, this study sought to identify key behavioral needs for a population being reintroduced to the wild and to assess if the Sumak Allpa troop met those needs. There are currently 26 members in the troop. There are 3 adult males and 9 adult females.The monkeys were observed for 1898 minutes over the course of 19 days with key behaviors noted. This included time allotment in foraging/eating, resting, moving and socializing. The troop spent the majority of its time foraging. This data differs from wild behavioral allotments but is likely due to the island habitat and methodological bias. Troop locations were also recorded and found to be consistent with past studies on the Sumak Allpa troop. Inter and intraspecific behaviors were qualitatively assessed along with anatomical movement and brachiation. The study revealed that the Sumak Allpa troop is ready for translocation as the Lagothrix lagotricha poeppigii have shown that they can feed themselves and defend themselves in wild contexts, increasing their chances of survival dramatically. With adequate post release monitoring they are likely to assimilate well to their new environment once

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Life Sciences

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