Skull fractures in infant squirrel monkeys (Saimiri sciureus)

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Primate Research
• Neonatal Pathology

Background:

• Neonatal mortality in squirrel monkeys is a significant issue in captive breeding colonies.
• Skull fractures leading to subdural and parenchymal hemorrhage are a common cause of death in these infants.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the causes of skull fractures and associated mortality in neonatal squirrel monkeys.
• To identify potential risk factors related to maternal behavior.

Main Methods:

• Observational study of a squirrel monkey breeding colony.
• Necropsy and histopathological examination of affected neonates.
• Behavioral analysis of dams during infant care.

Main Results:

• Skull fractures were identified as the primary cause of neonatal mortality.
• Hemorrhage in the subdural and brain parenchymal areas was consistently observed.
• Abnormal maternal carrying behavior and dam fright responses during nursing were implicated as potential causes.

Conclusions:

• Maternal behavior plays a critical role in neonatal survival in squirrel monkeys.
• Further research into managing maternal stress and refining handling techniques is warranted to reduce neonatal mortality.