Woven vine balls and baskets as feeding enrichment for howler monkeys (2004)

Prist. P., Pizzutto, C. S., Hashimoto, C.

Abstract

Our results showed that the animals spent more time foraging when the feeder balls were used [compared to the baskets], since it was more difficult to reach the leaves. The monkeys also explored each of the baskets and stopped spending most of their time on the floor. We concluded that these two enrichment ideas increased the animals' activity through play and exploration, and also increased their use of vertical space and reduced their time on the floor. These behaviors are more species-typical and appropriate for arboreal monkeys.