ABSTRACT
Around 6 out of 23 currently recognized species of macaque (especially rhesus, long-tailed and Japanese macaques) have featured in recently published work in the biomedical sciences. Research involving macaques has made, and continues to make, significant contributions to human health and well-being. However, there remains considerable scope for improving the psychological and physical health of these primates in research and breeding environments, which would result in animals that are more natural in their biology and more appropriate research models. This would improve both scientific validity and ethical acceptability. A central pillar for improving captive macaque welfare is a sound understanding of the biology of wild conspecifics. Understanding their adaptations (anatomical, physiological, and behavioral) enables the fine-tuning of captive environments, management regimes, and coping opportunities. This chapter summarizes important aspects of the lives of wild macaques, reviewing general patterns and highlighting species-typical traits. This will aid the identification and interpretation of both normal and abnormal behavior, as well as the design and refinement of environments, enrichment, and management practices in captivity to better meet species-typical needs and adaptations. In reviewing macaque captive behavior and behavioral management practices, this chapter emphasizes the importance of providing a species-appropriate social and physical environment, as well as suitable enrichment for exercise, occupation, and cognitive stimulation founded on a good understanding of the species’ natural biology. This will help reduce stress and abnormal behavior in macaques and hence enable more effective coping and improved welfare in research environments.
