Description and Analysis of the Arch Display in the Golden Lion Tamarin, Leontopithecus rosalia rosalia

Abstract

Three different arch displays are described in captive lion tamarins (Leontopithecus rosalia rosalia) at the National Zoological Park. Analysis of social behaviours including huddling, sexual activity, territorial encounters and arch displays suggests that arch displaying is motivated by conflicting tendencies of a nonaggressive nature and may function as a regulator of social contact, thus maintaining homeostasis within and between a social group.