In today’s video, we capture a surprising and emotionally charged moment from the troop as young Daniela attempts to drink milk from Dolly, triggering an intense and uncomfortable reaction. While these behaviors may look dramatic to viewers, they offer a fascinating window into natural primate instincts, boundaries, and social rules.
At the beginning of the video, Daniela approaches Dolly with clear signs of hunger and fatigue. As a young monkey, she instinctively seeks comfort and nourishment, but Dolly is not her biological mother—making the interaction complicated and sensitive. When Daniela tries to nurse, Dolly reacts immediately, showing signs of discomfort and irritation. Nursing can be physically painful for a female who is not currently breastfeeding or who is caring for her own baby, which helps explain Dolly’s defensive response.
Dolly’s initial frustration escalates into visible agitation. Her reactions may seem harsh, but they reflect a natural instinct to protect herself, her own offspring, and her physical condition. Monkey mothers often become protective of their milk supply, especially if their baby still relies on them for nutrition. This also explains why Dolly becomes increasingly upset as Daniela continues trying to nurse.
Daniela’s loud cries throughout the encounter show how distressed and exhausted she feels. Young monkeys frequently cry when they are tired, hungry, or confused, and these sounds communicate their emotional needs to the rest of the troop. Although it may be hard for human viewers to watch, this behavior is part of how primates express vulnerability and seek assistance or comfort.
You may also notice the troop’s reactions in the background. Some monkeys look on calmly, while others appear curious or cautious. These subtle responses reflect the complex social relationships within the group, where individuals constantly assess interactions and decide whether to intervene or stay neutral.
This video highlights an important reality of primate life: not all caregiving behaviors are shared, and even in close-knit troops, boundaries exist. Understanding these moments helps us appreciate the richness of primate emotions, the challenges of raising young, and the delicate balance of troop dynamics.
We encourage viewers to watch with an open mind and use this moment as a chance to learn more about monkey behavior and their social world.
