The formation of relationships based on socio-spatial proximity in a free-ranging colony of rhesus monkeys

This study attempted to describe the pattern of social affiliations in a colony of free-ranging rhesus monkeys (Macaca mulatta) on Key Lois Island, Florida. Monkeys arrived to Key Lois in nine distinct groups that were held in a 50×100 ft enclosure for between 30 and 60 days and then released. The data consisted of observations of groups of monkeys seen together at various times in various locations. The study tested the hypothesis that monkeys that were in the same quarantine group would more frequently be seen together in the free-range than monkeys from different quarantine groups. The hypothesis was confirmed in seven of the nine groups. Chi-square =2137.1 (p<.001),Cohen’s kappa =.38 (p<.001) (1960). Prior common group membership was found to be predictive of future social affiliations. Explanations of residual kin structure from India, the effect of a primary social experience in a new environment, and the possibility of in-group versus out-group forces between the successively introduced groups were advanced as possible reasons for the findings.