Monkeys Prefer Watching Videos Of Their Own Group, Study Finds

Researchers studied 30 long-tailed macaques from two groups at a research facility in the Netherlands. Each monkey viewed 16 two-minute videos featuring either their own group members or unfamiliar monkeys. The videos showed behaviors like conflict, running, grooming, and sitting. Monkeys paid more attention to videos of their own group members, particularly focusing on conflict or active movement. Lower-ranking monkeys and those with lower stress sensitivity showed stronger preferences for familiar faces. Younger monkeys displayed more stress-related behaviors when viewing strangers, while those with more social grooming relationships showed less stress. The study suggests that these monkeys prioritize social dynamics within their own communities over curiosity about outsiders. (Studyfinds)