#primate fact

Primate Fact 010: Peter pan males are adult male orangutans who have not developed flanges. While it is not completely known why this may happen, primatologists believe the development of flanges is closely related to social dominance (distance to dominant males), which suppresses testosterone levels. Once the dominant male leaves, the peter pan male will receive a sudden surge of testosterone, allowing them to grow the flanges. [x]

Primate Fact 008: It was once believed that the reason primates have distinctive characteristics (five finger/digits, short fingernails, stereoscopic vision, opposable thumbs, reduced reproductive rates, enhanced sense of touch and sight, increased brain size, and increased social complexity) was because they adapted to a life living on trees, otherwise known as the Arboreal Theory; however, as scientists continue to study primates, they have concluded that after careful observation, detailed notes, and countless research that they still don't know why the fuck primates tend to share those characteristics. [x]

Primate Fact 006: When nonhuman primates "smile" it usually shows aggression. However, drill monkeys can raise their cheeks to a "grin" which is a friendly sign. Just don't smile around any other monkey though -- you won't convey the same emotions! [x]

Primate Fact 005: While gorilla family troops observed by Dian Fossey and early primatologists and naturalists consisted of one silverback and his females and children, due to habitat loss, modern day gorillas troops have learned to adapt. Now, troops with a small handful of silverbacks with their females and children can also be observed out in the wild. In those groups, there is a clear male dominance hierarchy to maintain order. [x]

Primate Fact 004: While orangutans tend to be solitary in nature, they are capable of social activity. The mother/child relationship is the most striking and strongest relationship. Fathers tend to be absent in the wild, although in zoo settings, male orangutans can act as father figures. Orangutans can also form temporary traveling groups in the wild. Orangs are best described as solitary, but social. [x]