Abstract: The tufted Capuchin, Sapajus paella (Primate: Cebidae) is commonly called ‘Black-capped Capuchin’ or ‘Brown Capuchin’ different behaviours were recorded using standard methods at Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens, Mysuru (Latitude: 12.3028° N, Longitude: 76.6552° E) in Karnataka, India during 2025 after obtaining permission from the higher authority. Systematic planning was made in consultation with Range Officer, Animal Caretaker, Education Officer and Biological Scientist to record the behaviours of S. paella during morning, afternoon and evening hours in its enclosure. S. paella was observed by distance without creating any disturbance for its normal activity. Observations were made two times in a week from morning (10.00 AM), afternoon (01.00PM) and evening (04.00 PM) hours for a period of 56 days i.e., from 4th April to 31st May, 2025 using the focal animal sampling method with each session lasting for a period of 20 minutes. Total 17 behaviours were observed and observations were non-invasive and no interaction or interference with the S. paella. The study was conducted under the awareness of Zoological Gardens Authorities and aligned with the ethical standards for observational studies in Zoological Gardens. Results revealed that S. paella species exhibited a clear biphasic activity pattern, with increased physical and social activities during morning and evening periods, and a considerable drop-in activity during afternoon period. Analysis of variance of different behaviors of S. paella did indicate significant variation (F=7.814; P<0.05) under captive conditions. This clearly indicated that S. paella is active during most of the day and not demonstrated any stereotypic or abnormal behaviours that indicated the overall good welfare of the animal under captive conditions of Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens.

Keywords: Tufted Capuchin, Sapajus paella, captive conditions, Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens, India

Downloads: | DOI: 10.17148/IARJSET.2026.13161