Behavioral responses of longtailed macaques to different cage sizes and common laboratory experiences (1995)

Crockett, C. M., Bowers, C. L., Shimoji, M. et al.

Abstract

Locomotion and the frequency of behavioral changes were significantly lower in the two smallest, barren cages than in all the other larger, barren cages. Many cages that were built before passage of the law establishing minimums based on the inhabitant's weight are just a few centimeters too small. Abandoning them or spending many dollars to enlarge them will not be repaid in meaningful increments in psychological well-being. Monkeys who were moved to a new room and to a lesser extent to a new, clean cage showed disrupted sleep the 1st night and suppressed activity, especially self-grooming, the next day.