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Kakamega Forest Primate Research Project (Ongoing since 1979)
Field Study in Africa
Web Site: http://www.columbia.edu/~mc51/
Location of Site: KENYA, Kakamega Forest

Director: Marina Cords
Phone: 212-854-7337   Fax: 212-854-8188   E-Mail: mc51@columbia.edu
1200 Amsterdam Avenue, 10th floor, New York, New York 10027 UNITED STATES
Department: Department of Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Biology
Institution: Columbia University

Research Objectives: To understand the reproductive and social strategies of forest guenons. Current project focuses on cooperative behavior of females, especially how participation in group territorial defense (a collective action) is related to grooming behavior and feeding tolerance within the group. Foci of recent research include the correspondence of reproductive behavior and reproductive success in male blue monkeys (Cercopithecus mitis), the role of female choice in influencing paternity in blue monkeys, the nature of competitive relationships between and within groups, and the documentation of life history parameter (27 yrs and counting). Together with students I have also studied forest tree population dynamics and the ecology of variation in monkey group size. Previous students (and I) have worked on other primates at the site.

Field Positions and Volunteers: Occasional openings are available. Normally these are posted online under Primate Jobs at this site.

Species Studied: Cercopithecus ascanius (red-tailed monkey), Cercopithecus mitis (blue monkey), Colobus guereza (guereza)

Other Species at Site: Cercopithecus neglectus (de Brazza's monkey), Chlorocebus aethiops (grivet), Papio anubis (olive baboon), Perodicticus potto (potto)

Last Updated: 2007-02-27

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