Teste de aparato de sondagem para experimento de campo com macacos-prego (Sapajus spp.)

The use of probing tools has been described in different species, including birds, great apes, and capuchin monkeys, occurring both in natural contexts and in experimental studies. For capuchin monkeys (Sapajus spp.), field observations have recorded the use of sticks to obtain food such as invertebrates, small vertebrates, and honey, with behavioral variations across populations. Previous experiments have demonstrated that prior experience influences performance in probing tasks, highlighting the importance of individual and social learning. We built and tested an apparatus to evaluate the presence of probe tool use behavior in capuchins. To assess its resistance, we observed damaging behaviors directed at the apparatus. To evaluate its efficiency, we analyzed exploration and stick use in the apparatus. Our results show that the apparatus remained resistant and functional after more than three hours of exploration by the tested individuals. Considering that the group had previously been exposed to experimental apparatuses and that some individuals naturally use probing tools, we conclude that this methodology may be effective for identifying probing tool use in wild populations of capuchin monkeys.