The development of independence in bison: pre-weaning spatial relations between mothers and calves

摘要: Abstract Contact-maintanance interactions between bison, Bison mothers and calves during the first 7 months were observed to examine spatial aspects of development independence. During week, dyad members maintained close contact; however, by week 2 distances increased abruptly as followed their grazing less often. Dyadic interaction changed little after 2; subsequent changes in calf behaviour appeared be related more maturation because they not accompanied mother-calf distance or frequencies approaching leaving, a direction opposite that expected with increasing Around month 3 many occurred: suckled rested less, vocalized more, increasingly grazed led mothers. Consorting bulls caused temporary increases dyadic filial independence 4. Developmental occurred synchrony mother movements activity patterns, vocalization frequencies. In contrast, approaching/leaving showed change; thus these measures appear appropriate for studies ungulates than those primates. was characterized greater might follower species, where maternal proximity may primary means protecting young from predators. For example, least often nearby when most vulnerable. are clearly followers rest together maintain contact week. Contact maintenance also resulted primarily behaviour. The presence herd appears modify pattern, incorporating elements hiding accelerating