A primate was pictured during a most intense moment, appearing to give mouth-to-mouth to one of his female troop members.
However, it turns out that the monkey was taking an opportunity to make a pass at the attention-seeking female, wildlife photographer William Steel - who shot the incredible scene - told the Daily Mail.
Astonishing images show monkey 'giving CPR and mouth-to-mouth' to 'wounded' mate https://t.co/fCw8gOADa8 pic.twitter.com/5a0WskI0l7
— Deez 2 MFs (@MfsDeez) November 10, 2020
The photographer told how the female monkey threw herself on the ground in a most melodramatic way. Surprised by what was going on, he picked up his camera as another monkey quickly made a move and grabbed the face of the prone female, seemingly administering her with the kiss of life.
The series of pictures taken by the photographer shows the monkey in grooming ritual. The events call to mind the expression "cheeky monkey" but which monkey was being cheeky is debatable. "On reflection, I think the performance was all a cry for attention from the female,” the photographer said.
He explains the behaviours, saying that the bonds in the community are formed largely through grooming. It's a give and take relationship. Just like humans, compassion can sometimes be manipulated by attention-seeking individuals.
