Effect of food preparation on feeding behavior of lion-tailed macaques
Publication Type: |
Journal Article |
Year of Publication: |
1989 |
Authors: |
Amy Smith, D. G. Lindburg, S. Vehrencamp |
Publication/Journal: |
Zoo Biology |
Publisher: |
A Wiley Company, Inc., Wiley Subscription Services |
Keywords: |
colony management, diet, macaca silenus |
ISBN: |
1098-2361 |
Abstract:
Abstract 10.1002/zoo.1430080108.abs Ten group-living lion-tailed macaques (Macaca silenus), accustomed to receiving fruits and vegetable items of the diet in chopped form, were given these same foods in whole form to compare reactions to the non-nutritional properties of food. Contrary to common belief, the access of individuals to the different food items was not equalized through chopping into bite-sized morsels. Mean dietary diversity actually increased with presentation of whole foods, as did time spent feeding and total amount of food consumed. The widespread practice of chopping of food for captive primates has little to commend it in light of these findings.