Anthropology 130 Research Simulation 4: Studying Primates

Question

Anthropology 130 Research Simulation 4: Studying Primate Tra its and Behavior Instructions Part One: Choose a primate live stream, prerecorded video, or an in-person observation (e.g., at a zoo or sanctuary). Live streams are preferred because they are unedited, but prerecorded videos are acceptable. If observing in person, take a photo to document attendance. Part Two: Watch the chosen primate for at least ten minutes (preferably longer). In a table, record time-stamped, detailed observations of behaviors and actions. Note how the primate performs actions (which limb is used, manner of movement, body posture) rather than general labels. Write a short report organized as follows: 1. Introduction: Identify the primate(s) observed, whether the observation was live, prerecorded, or in person, and what you expected to see. End with a brief summary of what you actually observed. 2. Body Paragraph 1: Describe the scene and individuals in detail, and narrate the actions you observed in chronological order with rich detail. 3. Body Paragraph 2: Discuss at least three primate traits (physical or behavioral) you observed, relating them to concepts from lecture or textbook. 4. Conclusion: Summarize which primates you observed, what you expected, and what you actually saw. Additional requirements: Make the observation table detailed and use class vocabulary where possible. The report should be at least 700 words, use college-level writing, and be your own original work.

Dr. Jack HW Helper · Accepted Answer

Introduction For this observation I used the San Diego Zoo Gorilla livestream (San Diego Zoo Global Live Cam) and recorded continuously for 30 minutes. I selected a captive western lowland gorilla group because their combination of terrestrial and arboreal behaviors, social complexity, and clear locomotor specializations (e.g., knuckle-walking) are excellent for demonstrating primate traits discussed in our lectures and textbook (Fleagle, 2013; Campbell et al., 2011). I expected to see a mix of feeding, resting, locomotion, and social interactions including grooming and play. In summary, I observed a dominant adult male (silverback) feeding and ignoring a juvenile that attempted to initiate play, the juvenile using knuckle-walking and grasping actions, and several episodes of social interaction (play and brief grooming) consistent with primate sociality and locomotive specialization. Observation Narrative (Body Paragraph 1) The observation began with a large adult male gorilla seated on packed substrate facing the camera, holding a leafy branch in both hands. He used precision grip with his distal fingers and nails to strip leaves, bringing them to his mouth (0:00–3:00). At 3:10 a juvenile entered from the left and approached the adult using knuckle-walking: the juvenile supported weight on the dorsal surface of the middle phalanges while flexing at the wrist and elbow, producing a characteristic knuckle-walk gait. The juvenile made light tactile contact with the adult’s forearm, tapping with open palms and producing a soft vocalization. The adult responded by turning away, maintaining an erect seated posture and continuing to feed (3:10–6:00). At 6:05 the juvenile grabbed a low branch with the right foot, demonstrating grasping ability of the pedal digits, then rolled onto its back and manipulated the branch with both hands (6:05–8:00). This action involved coordinated bimanual manipulation and alternating hand-foot use. At 10:30 another adult female approached and

Anthropology 130 Research Simulation 4: Studying Primates ✓ Solved

Anthropology 130 Research Simulation 4: Studying Primate Tra

Paper For Above Instructions

Introduction

Observation Narrative (Body Paragraph 1)

Primate Traits Observed (Body Paragraph 2)

Conclusion

References