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Primate Behavior

Page 6

6) For primates, as all other mammals, mother is a source of food. This young Japanese macaque nurses while its mother is groomed by another monkey. At first, mothers carefully guard their infants, and may prevent others from touching the new baby. Interested animals are allowed near the infant only after reassuring the mother of their friendly intentions. Mother Japanese macaque holds nursing infant while troop member grooms her.

Notes: Mother Japanese macaque holds nursing infant while troop member grooms her.
Scientific name: Macaca fuscata
macaque -- ma-KACK
Questions:
Why are mothers so protective of their young infants?
Why do other members of the group find infants attractive?
Photo © by: Frans de Waal

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