THE ADAPTABILITY OF CHLOROCEBUS: A LOOK INTO THE BIRTH SEASONALITY AND POPULATION GROWTH OF THE VERVETS IN DANIA BEACH, FLORIDA

My study, presented as a short report, focuses on one of the Chlorocebus sabaeus vervet social groups residing in the coastal town of Dania Beach, Florida. Few researchers have studied these introduced primates in this particular region. Due to Chlorocebus’ flexible adaptation, they have an ability to live among humans in urban environments and in the Caribbean. Primate researchers primarily study factors that support and threaten their survival. Dr. Missy Williams, formerly of Florida Atlantic University, has conducted research on these social groups for several years, and my study adds more information to understanding the current status of the vervet population. In this study, I examine if birth seasonality correlates with annual rainfall in the South Florida region.