Primate production can be achieved through the creation of captive 
production colonies, or through the establishment of isolated reserves 
in which free-ranging animals are protected and managed for production. 
In either case, indigenous primate populations are the initial source of 
these animals; unfortunately, they have not been effectively protected 
or managed. The technology and procedures for wildlife management, 
especially for certain game species, have been developed to a high level 
of efficacy; but very little has been done in this regard for wild 
primates. Basic information on biologic characteristics, research 
potentials, and management technology are available for very few primate 
species. The most widely used species are those for which much of this 
basic information exists. Consistent with previous experiences, however, 
it is likely that increased demands will be made for other species as 
new technologies show them to be particularly useful. Moreover, on few 
(if any) of the primate species is there the specific information 
necessary to sustain them as national resources with cultural and 
economic advantage to the countries in which they are indigenous. In 
order to encourage the conservation and ecological management of primates, 
specialized courses of study must be developed. 
It is recommended that a course of study and research in wild¬ 
life management of primates be developed within a United States 
university, working in cooperation with foreign counterpart 
universities, for the preparation of personnel to work in this 
field. 
A major factor in primate loss has been the death of animals during 
capture, holding, and shipping. Far too many animals are killed during 
capture or die soon afterwards from inadequate attention to their needs 
during transport and adaption to captivity. There have been notable 
improvements in recent years, but mortality from unregulated trapping 
and holding may sometimes still be as high as 50 percent of the numbers 
captured. Experience in some special situations and with certain 
species (e.g., rhesus in India) has demonstrated that these losses 
can be greatly reduced. Further study and implementation of control 
procedures are necessary to improve trapping methods, holding, and 
shipping procedures for all primates. 
It is recommended that sponsors supporting activities using wild- 
caught primates provide support to develop methods that will 
reduce losses incident to trapping, holding, and shipping. 
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