Woodchip litter in macaque groups (1979)

Chamove, A. S., Anderson, J. R.

Abstract

The effects of the presence of woodchips as a floor covering were assessed on psychological well-being in two pens housing 28 macaques. No negative effects were found, while aggression decreased and time foraging on the floor increased. The chips were less expensive, they reduced odour, and the animals had more equal feeding rates. We have also noticed an improved cleanliness of the monkeys' coats, cleaner windows, and some noise attenuation. The addition of grain resulted in considerable increase in foraging activities.