Macachiavellian Intelligence: How Rhesus Macaques and Humans Have Conquered the World Book

I'm currently reading this book and beginning to work w/ Rhesus Macaques tomorrow. This book is very interesting bc it compares humans and Rhesus Macaque monkeys. Interesting tidbit: did you know Rhesus Macaques are the 2nd most prolific primate on the planet next to human beings. No other species of primate has conquered more climates, continents or areas than rhesus macaques and humans. Their adaptability is unsurpassed by any other non-human primate. This is why they are the 'ideal' research monkey. You can pretty well let them go anywhere and they will find a way to adapt. In Asia they are like pigeons in NY City. They've even managed to become worshipped at a lot of temples and brought fresh produce daily. These are fascinating creatures who unlike humans are matrilineal. Women rules these social groups, with the adolescent males being forced out at puberty. If you're interested in Psychology, Sex, Status, Dominance, Aggression or Intelligence this would be a great read for you! I find it fascinating! Its all about social living like we humans do to survive. Rhesus monkeys are no different, isolate them and they fail to thrive. A socially ostracized monkey will not survive long but w/in the structure of their intricate social web, they thrive. What makes this book entirely unique? Generally, most books written about primate behavior and most studies of comparative evolution and social cooperation are comparing Great Apes and humans. This timely book shows that are monkey cousins are not far away from us either and although less intelligent than Great Apes are much better survivors. These monkeys are in no way endangered and have found a way to peacefully live with humans and adapt to deforestation, logging, human infringement, etc.....