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Sneaky mating

Toque macaque troops are ruled by a strict hierarchy in Sri Lanka. The rights to mate should only be held by the alpha male and he spends time recruiting allies to ensure this is the case. However, if a female sees potential in a low-ranking male as a future leader, it is a shrewd move to mate with him instead. Both will face severe punishment from the troop if caught attempting this but it may be the only chance for the low-ranking male to pass on his genes. So as not to raise suspicion, the pair will use very subtle glances, eyelid fluttering and teeth flashing in order to signal their interest to one another. When the alpha male and his allies are not looking, the pair will then sneak off for a quick secret liaison.

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4 minutes

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