A group of 35 C. albifrons occupied a home range of 110-20 ha. Groups of this species are strongly intolerant of one another and defend largely exclusive territories. These authorities also observed that in coastal areas, where C. capucinus was not hunted or harassed, it traveled in groups of 20-30 individuals that would make bold displays at humans but that in disturbed inland forests the monkeys lived in small bands that fled silently from people. Several hundred individuals of the last species were once observed to congregate to feed on fruits. In general, groups appear to contain more adult females than males but to be dominated by a large older male.
Capuchins have a variety of chatters, squeaks, shrieks, and other sounds for communication.
As it gains strength it moves about on the mother or leaves her for short periods to explore nearby, but it nurses for at least several months. When a helpless young loses its mother or becomes separated from her, other members of the troop often come in response to its distress cries and assist it. Capuchins are such vivacious, intelligent little monkeys that they have become the most numerous monkeys in captivity in both the United States and Europe. They are the monkeys most often used by itinerant organ grinders. They must be kept fairly warm and free from drafts, receive a wide variety of food, and have an opportunity for plenty of exercise and sunlight.