Diurnal activity patterns within female herds of isard around parturition time

摘要: We compared diurnal activity patterns of isards (Rupicapra pyrenaica) within female herds around the time parturition in a Pyrenean reserve. From mid-April to mid-May, i.e., at end gestation period, adult females spent significantly more foraging (76 vs. 65%) and less resting than yearlings did. mid-June mid-July, after birth kids, had exactly same budget (62% for foraging) pattern, with well-marked phase midday. Analysis data 15-min intervals indicated synchronism when animals leave area by crossing crest line, or arriving their phases. During 2 first months life, kids polyphasic pattern characterized four distinct phases 4 h apart, three peaks between midday evening. Nevertheless, some behavioural physiological mechanisms permitted synchronize activ...