Primate Observations

In order to complete this extra credit option, you must visit a large zoological society or a primate reserve where it is possible to view the primates in person. Visit a facility like the San Francisco Zoo – observe primates and classify them. Upload your results.

Remember the Different Primate Types:
Prosimians are lower primates with pointed, dog-like snouts and elongated bodies. They are quadrapedal with a good sense of smell. New World Monkeys are found in the New World and rely heavily on sight. Some have prehensile tails with nostrils that are far apart and open. Old World Monkeys are found in the Old World and have nostrils that are narrow and close. Some have ischial callosities with no prehensile tails. Apes are the most advanced primates, found in Asia and Africa. They do not have tails, their forearms are longer and chests are barrel-shaped.

Part 1:
Choose five (5) different primate species to observe for a few minutes each.
(identify the primate, describe its method of locomotion, and note where it prefers to rest)

1. Which primate species is this?
Does this primate mostly sit, jump, climb, brachiate, hang or run?
Does this primate prefer the high canopy, middle canopy, or the ground?

2. Which primate species is this?
Does this primate mostly sit, jump, climb, brachiate, hang or run?
Does this primate prefer the high canopy, middle canopy, or the ground?

3. Which primate species is this?
Does this primate mostly sit, jump, climb, brachiate, hang or run?
Does this primate prefer the high canopy, middle canopy, or the ground?

4. Which primate species is this?
Does this primate mostly sit, jump, climb, brachiate, hang or run?
Does this primate prefer the high canopy, middle canopy, or the ground?

5. Which primate species is this?
Does this primate mostly sit, jump, climb, brachiate, hang or run?
Does this primate prefer the high canopy, middle canopy, or the ground?

Part 2:
Select one (1) species and describe at least four (4) forms of social interaction you observe them doing. (choose active primates and think about affiliative behaviors)

1. Identify your focal primate species:

2. Describe Social Interaction A:

3. Describe Social Interaction B:

4. Describe Social Interaction C:

5. Describe Social Interaction D: