Environmental and biological drivers of movement activity in Callimico goeldii under zoo conditions

Animal welfare is a crucial aspect of zoological research, with behavioral assessment serving as a key indicator of well-being. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of photoperiod duration, daylight savings shift from winter to summer time, atmospheric pressure, and the occurrence of parturition on the motor activity of Callimico goeldii under zoo conditions. Animal activity analysis was performed via an automatic image analysis method in a family group of nine individuals over two months. Earlier sunrise was associated with an earlier onset of activity, whereas the lengthening of daylight in the afternoon did not affect the extension of motor activity at the end of the day. A decrease in the motor activity of the group was observed after parturition. The demonstrated upward trend in motor activity following the shift from winter to summer time likely resulted from stress due to changes in the timing of Callimico goeldii handling. The results also showed that daily fluctuations in atmospheric pressure constitute a strong stimulant for Callimico goeldii and may cause changes in the functioning of these primates. In conclusion, it can be stated that the environmental and biological factors considered in this analysis can significantly influence the activity patterns of this species and should be taken into account when assessing their welfare under zoo conditions.