Faces in the Forest

by Strier, Karen B.

• ISBN13: 9780674290082
• ISBN10: 0674290089
• Edition: 1st
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 1999-05-01
• Publisher: Harvard Univ Pr

Summary

The woolly spider monkey, or muriqui, is one of the most threatened primate species in the world. Because of deforestation in their natural habitat--the Atlantic coastal forests of southeastern Brazil--the muriquis are confined to less than 3 percent of their original range. As of 1987, there were only a dozen forest fragments known to support a total muriqui population of about 500. As of 1998, at least 20 forests are known to support at least 1,000 muriquis. This book traces the natural history of the muriqui from its scientific discovery in 1806 to its current, highly endangered status. Karen Strier provides a case study of this scientifically important primate species by balancing field research and ecological issues. Through her accessible presentation, readers gain a broad understanding of primate behavior and tropical conservation.

Table of Contents

Foreword	ix
Preface, 1999	xi
Acknowledgments	xxiii
Introduction	xxvii
Charcoal Monkey	3	(6)
Fragmented Forest	9	(6)
Models to Mud	15	(20)
Fazenda Montes Claros	18	(5)
First Impressions	23	(4)
Research Design	27	(8)
From Days to Years	35	(15)
Close Encounters	37	(5)
Rainy Days	42	(3)
Expanding the Research	45	(5)
Early Risers and Other Surprises	50	(16)
Peaceful Patrilines	66	(16)
Life Histories, Unsolved Mysteries	82	(16)
Conservation Concerns and Compromises	98	(15)
Appendix: Forests Known to Support Muriquis	113	(2)
Notes	115	(11)
References	126	(9)
Index	135