Social integration of lone wild howler monkey (Alouatta palliata) into a captive-raised troop in Costa Rica

Abstract

In Sarapiquí, Costa Rica, Toucan Rescue Ranch has started a rehabilitation program for orphaned golden-mantled howler monkeys (Alouatta palliata). These individuals are brought to the rescue center by the National Systems of Conservation Areas (SINAC), the government organization in charge of managing conservation areas in Costa Rica. The orphaned howler monkeys are received primarily due to electrocutions and are cared for by a team of trained biologists and veterinarians. Since the beginning of the program in 2021, seven individuals have been reintroduced at a release site. Post-release monitoring has been conducted in order to track their adaptation and survival in the wild. During routine observations, a lone wild male began to spend time near the reintroduced individuals. A series of interactions took place over the course of several weeks, culminating into the acceptance of the wild male by one of the reintroduced troops. This integration illustrates the potential for captive-raised individuals to form social bonds with wild counterparts, while highlighting the importance of monitoring behaviors during reintroduction efforts. By documenting these interactions, conservationists can gain valuable insights into how captive-raised individuals are adapting to wild habitats. Future research is critical in order to explore whether these connections can facilitate learning and ease the transition to a natural environment, ultimately contributing to more successful reintroduction outcomes.