Recognition of heterospecific alarm vocalizations by bonnet macaques (Macaca radiata)

Recognition of heterospecific alarm vocalizations is an essential component of antipredator behavior in several prey species. The authors examined the role of learning in the discrimination of heterospecific vocalizations by wild bonnet macaques (Macaca radiata) in southern India. The bonnet macaque s' flight and scanning responses to playbacks of their own alarm vocalizati ons were compared with their responses to playbacks of vocalizations of Nil giri langurs (Trachypithecus johnii), Hanuman langurs (Semnopithecus entell us), and sambar deer (Cervus unicolor). The study was conducted in 3 region s that differed in the frequency with which bonnet macaques encountered the se species and included an urban setting. Call recognition was highest in a dults and in regions where individuals were frequently exposed to the calli ng species; calls were not recognized by urban monkeys. Thus, age and exper ience are important factors in heterospecific call recognition by bonnet ma caques.