Urine-rubbing behavior in the mantled howler monkey Alouatta palliata

Mantled howler monkeys (Alouatta palliata) of both sexes and all age classes were observed rubbing urine on the soles of the feet and/or palms of the hands as well as the ventral surface of the tail and, occasionally, the throat. Instances of urine-rubbing were often associated with periods of troop movement or times of social stress. Intra-troop cohesion may be the primary function of such behavior. Other possible function of urine-rubbing are discussed.