Evaluating the social networks of four flocks of captive flamingos over a five-year period: Temporal, environmental, group and health influences on assortment

摘要: Flamingos are well known for their gregarious habits and aggregations in large flocks, but evaluation of the mechanisms behind social grouping remain poorly understood. Captive birds provide a useful model investigating aspects choice highly gregarious, long-lived species. Animals invest relationships that convey fitness benefits bonds can be long-lasting. For some species, field-based measurement networks difficult. populations therefore alternative measuring choices. Data were collected on flamingos at WWT Slimbridge Wetland Centre from 2013 to 2016 compared data 2012. three associations analysed along with individual foot health scores identify any relationship between behaviour. Long-term partnerships present all flocks; preferred associates noted 2012 2016. Matrix correlations across years positive; arrangements dyads, trios quartets higher ties strengths visible beginning end study. Both male-male female-female stable over time. All more frequently seen socialising than solitary; those largest flock showed highest occurrence behaviour (irrespective enclosure size differences). The number connections realised available within network was significantly influenced by season. Foot did not predict these flamingo networks. Our results indicate societies complex (i.e. formed long-standing preferential loose, random connections) impact environment sociality should investigated further. These helpful working captive consider housed so an array opportunities associate and/or breeding partner zoo-housed flocks.