Birth Processes and Related Behaviors of Yunnan Snub-nosed Monkeys in Baimaxueshan Nature Reserve
Birth Processes and Related Behaviors of Yunnan Snub-nosed Monkeys in Baimaxueshan Nature Reserve
Mei Zhao1,2, Xiaoqin Zeng1, Wancai Xia1, Baoping Ren3,4, Hao Feng1, Fan Wang1, Qihai Zhou5,6* and Dayong Li1,7*
ABSTRACT
Birth processes and related behaviors are the crucial events in mammalian reproduction. However, detailed reports of birth processes and related behaviors in wild nonhuman primates in their natural habitats are rare. Here, we document our observations of birth processes and related behaviors via scan sampling and focal animal samples during the birth of two infant Yunnan snub-nosed monkeys (Rhinopithecus bieti) in 2017. One of the infants was born during diurnal to a multiparous female, while the other one was a nocturnal birth to a primiparous female. Actual parturition lasted only 7 min for diurnal birth. During the parturition process, the mother received what could be described as assistance in delivery from the other females and resident male within one male unit. During each of the two births, the one-male unit’s resident male patrolled the area to keeping it secure. After birth, other members of the unit showed intense interest in the neonate. Adult females are more skilled and efficient in handling infants than sub-adult females. Our results will serve to advance our understanding of this important life history event in nonhuman primates.
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