Page 246 - Zoo Animal Learning and Training

218 Box B7 Species‐specioic onsiderations: Primate Learning

VetBooks.ir asking the right question or using the right gorilla) produce distinct, identifying odours
(Hepper and Wells 2010); and male gelada
methods. This is where the physical charac-
teristics of different primates come into play.
social status with chest colour (Bergman
For example, gibbons (Hylobatidae) were baboons (Theropithecus gelada) indicate
thought to be less intelligent than other pri- et al. 2009). Vision, in particular, is impor-
mate species because they were not success- tant for primates, but not all primates see
ful in performing cognitive tasks in which the world in the same way (Jacobs 1993).
others excelled (e.g. Spence 1937). That is, Colour vision, whilst helpful for detecting
until a scientist modified the task to accom- ripe fruit (Regan et al. 1998) or palatable
modate the gibbons’ elongated hand (Beck leaves (Lucas et al. 1998), is different
1967). When the items were elevated off a amongst primates. Although humans, other
flat surface, the gibbons were able to learn apes, and Old World monkeys (Catarrhines)
how to participate in the task and correctly are trichromatic, colour vision in New World
solve the problem. monkeys (Platyrrhines) varies with many
species exhibiting allelic trichomacy, mean-
ing only females are trichromatic, and is lim-
Sensory Abilities
ited in prosimians (Strepsirrhines), which
The ability to respond to sensory signals is are mono and dichromatic (Surridge et al.
crucial to the success of any living species 2003). The sensory ability of each species is
(e.g. Krebs and Dawkins 1984). For example, linked to the capacity to learn. When we
vervet monkey (Chlorocebus pygerythrus) consider the strength of an animal’s sense of
vocalisations can be referential and repre- smell and what they can see, or even the nat-
sent objects or events in the world (Cheney ural cues they are drawn towards, we are
and Seyfarth 1982); gorillas (Gorilla gorilla designing training methodology to their

Figure B7.1 Batang and Redd orangutan Pongo pygmaeus travelling from one habitat to another via the
O‐Line, orangutan transit system, at Smithsonian’s National Zoo. Source: Smithsonian Institution.