Factors Influencing Alopecia and Hair Cortisol in Rhesus Macaques (Macaca Mulatta)

The study assessed alopecia and hair cortisol in 117 rhesus monkeys at two National Primate Research Centers to identify potential risk factors. It found that age, days singly housed, and their interactions influenced alopecia at both facilities. For hair cortisol, sex and location changes were significant at Facility 1, while sedations were significant at Facility 2. Alopecia and hair cortisol were associated at Facility 1. The study concluded that captive management practices affected alopecia and hair cortisol, with differences between facilities in the relationship between these factors and the impact of intrinsic variables and management procedures.