Evidence of behavioral contagion in captive black-and-white ruffed lemur (Varecia variegata variegata) and red ruffed lemur (Varecia rubra)
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Behavioral contagion can be defined as the propensity to show a behavior after observing it displayed (i.e. trigger event) by another individual (i.e. model). This phenomenon, encompassing behaviors such as yawning and scratching, can have a significant role in social synchronization and coordination, and has been widely observed across various species, from birds to mammals. While contagious yawning and scratching have been extensively studied in monkeys and apes, limited research exists in lemur species. Here, we aimed to investigate the presence of contagious yawning and scratching in captive groups of black-and-white ruffed lemur (Varecia variegata variegata) and red ruffed lemur (Varecia rubra) housed at the Nyíregyházi Zoo, Hungary (N=8). Drawing on previous findings and hypotheses, we assessed the likelihood of yawning and scratching after observing a conspecific’s trigger event, and the possible mediating effect of the model’s dominance rank. Our results indicate a higher probability of other group members engaging in scratching and yawning behaviors after observing a trigger event, in both species. In contrast, our analysis did not reveal any mediating effect of the model’s dominance rank on the likelihood of response. This study sheds light on the presence and potential determinants of behavioral contagion in lemurs, contributing to our understanding about the phenomenon.