Social display, feeding, exploration, and program attentiveness rates for rhesus monkeys (Macaca mulatta) exposed to audio-visual programs (2003)

O'Neill-Wagner, P.

Abstract

Ten rhesus monkeys were separated from their social groups for medical treatments lasting 3-14 days. Animals required hospitalization for conditions including fight wounds, diarrhea, and surgery. To prevent boredom, reduce isolation stress, and discourage removal of sutures and surgical wraps, the animals were exposed to audiovisual tapes for enrichment and distraction. .. Immature animals engaged in more exploration and play behavior and less video presentation attentiveness than adults... As socio-emotional display rates increased, eating appeared to decrease.