The effects of temporary removal of the alpha male on the behavior of subordinate male vervet monkeys

The effects of temporary removal of the alpha male on the behavior of subordinate adult male vervet monkeys were evaluated. Twelve subordinate males from six captive multimale, multifemale vervet monkey groups were observed in two conditions: when all group members were present and when the alpha male was temporarily removed from each group. In the absence of the alpha male, subordinate males initiated more affiliative behavior and increased the amount of time spent in proximity to females but their rates of aggression were unaltered. Increased affiliative behavior was selectively directed to high‐ranking females and their offspring. Under removal conditions, subordinate male behavior did not resemble that of alpha males in intact conditions: they differed in their proximity to and affiliative behavior towards other group members. In the absence of the alpha male, females increased their aggression towards subordinate males. These observations suggest that the presence of alpha males strongly inhibits subordinate males' behavior. When the constraints of the alpha male's presence are removed, subordinate males rapidly engage in behavior that may enhance their likelihood of attaining high rank. In combination with prior studies, the data also indicate that the behaviors involved in the maintenance of high rank by alpha males differ from those subordinates use to acquire dominance. Finally the current study supports the view that aggression by female vervets may be highly influential in determining male ascendency to dominant rank.