COLONY MANAGEMENT AND PROPOSED ALTERATIONS IN LIGHT OF EXISTING CONDITIONS AT THE CHIMPANZEE CONSORTIUM.
Abstract
The behavioral and environmental conditions at the Consortium, a facility at the 6571st Aeromedical Research Laboratory, Holloman Air Force Base, New Mexico, are described with respect to the maintenance of healthy, reproducting animals at the lowest possible cost. Reproduction rates and frequency of aggression in the Consortium are compared with those reported for chimpanzees in their natural habitat. Reproduction is slightly lower and aggression more common in the Consortium. The role of laboratory colonies in insuring a future supply of chimpanzees for research without decimating wild populations is discussed. Suggestions for structural and procedural improvements predicted to increase reproduction, reduce aggression, increase the housing capacity, and reduce maintenance costs are made. The authors stress that the manipulative abilities and strength of chimpanzees should be taken into account whenever physical structures are planned. A method of introducting new animals into the Consortium is proposed. The authors conclude that the Consortium has a tremendous potential with respect to both housing and social behavior research. The proposed modifications are made in light of this belief. It is hoped that the suggestions be thoughtfully considered and ultimately implemented in an experimental manner whenever possible. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 1969
- Accession Number
- AD0689235
Entities
People
- Carolyn C. Wilson
- Wendell L. Wilson
Organizations
- University of California, Los Angeles