Coexistence between humans and capuchin monkeys (Sapajus libidinosus): Comparing observational data with farmers' perceptions of crop losses

Foraging on anthropogenic food by wildlife is a prevalent form of human-
wildlife interaction. Few studies have evaluated the impact of wildlife crop foraging in
Neotropical areas where small-scale agriculture is practiced and the habitat has not been
heavily altered. Our objectives were 1) to evaluate the perceptions of small-scale
farmers living in southern Piauí (Brazil) of the impact of bearded capuchins (Sapajus
libidinosus) on their crops and 2) quantify crop losses due to the monkeys and other
vertebrates. In 2013, we interviewed 78 residents about the impact of capuchins on
their crops. Subsequently, we recorded foraging by vertebrate animals in corn fields,
and evaluated farmers' crop losses. The farmers showed a positive attitude toward the
capuchins and their perceptions of wildlife behavior were generally accurate. The
impact of wildlife varied in relation to the field's location, number of foraging
individuals, and time spent foraging, as well as plant growth patterns. Vertebrates
consumed between 23 and 100 % of the crops. Capuchins consumed the majority of
crop losses, though birds consumed up to a third. The presence of a watchman reduced
losses from wildlife by 66 %. In conclusion, although capuchins forage flexibly on
anthropogenic crops, in a society relying on subsistence agriculture, their impact is
perceived to be moderate overall. Peaceful coexistence between humans and monkeys