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Hall, Marion
(1979).
URL: https://sussex.primo.exlibrisgroup.com/discovery/d...
Abstract
The main aims of this project were to look at the development of the mother-offspring relationship with time, and at differences in that relationship between hinds of various categories, divided according to sex of calf and reproductive status of mother. Initially, data from the wild population of red deer on the Isle of Rhum on the association between a hind and her offspring less than two years old were analysed. Changes in association with time and differences between hinds of the various categories are described. In addition, detailed behavioural observations were made of a group of semi-tame deer in a large enclosure. Parturition and early behaviour of mother and calf is described, and red deer behaviour at this time compared with that of other ungulates. Much of the behaviour can be interpreted in terms of predator avoidance. Quantitative measures of proximity and maintenance of proximity between mother and young and of the interactions between them were used to describe the mother-offspring relationship. As in the wild population, there are differences in the relationship due to sex of calf and reproductive status of mother. In particular male calves in the enclosure stay close to their mothers for a greater proportion of their time than do female calves, and this may be related to their higher milk requirement. Also hinds and their yearlings stay close together for a greater proportion of their time if the hind does not have another calf the following year. The social organization of the group of deer in the enclosure was also studied. Four aspects of social organization and their relationships to each other are described: the dominance hierarchy; social grooming; mounting behaviour and spatial organization. Red deer social organization is particularly compared to that of primates.
CORE (COnnecting REpositories)
CORE (COnnecting REpositories)
