Predation on two brown-eared woolly opossums (Caluromys lanatus) by a group of large-headed capuchin monkeys (Sapajus macrocephalus) and notes on their hierarchical feeding behaviour

The large-headed capuchin monkey (Sapajus macrocephalus) is a generalist omnivore known for its dietary flexibility and opportunistic feeding strategies. In September 2022, at the Manu Learning Centre Biological Station in southeast Peru, a group of seven monkeys was observed preying on two brown-eared woolly opossums (Caluromys lanatus). The feeding followed a hierarchical order, with the alpha male and a female with an infant feeding first, followed by a juvenile. There was no aggressive behaviour towards juveniles, suggesting adults may facilitate their feeding. This observation adds a new prey item to the capuchin’s diet and highlights their diverse dietary habits.