Question 1

What happens to an alpha who loses his position?

Accepted Answer

He’s relegated to a new, lower-ranked position in the troop and loses the food, resources, mating and other privileges reserved for the alpha. He may now become subject to aggression, bullying or social exclusion from higher ranking males in the new hierarchy. If he has made close enduring bonds prior to being toppled, these should hold him in good stead, providing friendship, social support and comfort, and he may still be able to wield valuable social influence in the troop. Often he will become much closer to the females, juveniles and infants who he has fathered.

Question 2

What happens to an alpha who loses his position?

Accepted Answer

He’s relegated to a new, lower-ranked position in the troop and loses the food, resources, mating and other privileges reserved for the alpha. He may now become subject to aggression, bullying or social exclusion from higher ranking males in the new hierarchy. If he has made close enduring bonds prior to being toppled, these should hold him in good stead, providing friendship, social support and comfort, and he may still be able to wield valuable social influence in the troop. Often he will become much closer to the females, juveniles and infants who he has fathered.