In this dramatic and unexpected scene, two older female monkeys are seen fighting over baby monkeys, creating a moment of chaos within the troop. What begins as a territorial disagreement quickly escalates into a physical altercation, with both females trying to assert control over the infants—likely not their own.
Such behavior, while startling, reflects the complex social dynamics in primate groups. Older females, especially those without young of their own, may sometimes attempt to take or hold babies from other mothers. This can be due to maternal instincts, dominance struggles, jealousy, or social confusion. The result can be distressing for the babies, who are caught in the middle and often cry or cling in fear.
The troop around them appears anxious, with other monkeys watching or trying to avoid the escalating conflict. Eventually, one of the mothers—or a more dominant troop member—may step in to restore peace and return the babies to safety.
