Assessing the potential of non-harmful,natural feeding deterrents tested on captive primates

Crop damage by non-human primates can cause friction between local people, government wildlife agencies and conservationists. Consequently, developing effective, non-lethal methods to protect crops against primate foraging could benefit farmers, reduce conflicts between interest groups, and even promote primate conservation The purpose of this research was to (1) develop a simple, economical protocol for testing the deterrent properties of non-lethal plant substances on captive primates prior to testing in the field; (2) examine the preliminary effectiveness of neem (Azadirachta indica) and ocimum (Ocimum kilimandscharicum) essential oils, and spent coffee grounds (SCGs) as feeding deterrents in captive macaques. The test methods developed involved exposing primates to possible feeding deterrents whilst feeding and comparing to a control. This was used to identify likely repellent substances, which could then be tested in the field to determine their effectiveness against crop damage. SCGs were most effective at deterring the macaques; ocimum and neem essential oils were less effective, though animals appeared less willing to access food when protected by these oils than they were under control conditions.