Why do male Cape ground squirrels live in groups

摘要: Abstract The Cape ground squirrel,Xerus inauris, is a social species of squirrel inhabiting the arid areas southern Africa. high degree sociality in this due to occurrence all-male groups. This study used scan and all-occurrence sampling investigate male grouping species. Several hypotheses concerning cause function groups were addressed: aggregations around oestrous females, assessment competitors, enhanced thermoregulation, reproductive alliances, satellite males, information exchange predator avoidance. Males able detect onset oestrus females. Although influenced group size, males continued beyond breeding period. These persisted throughout year, regardless ambient temperature. Older better at finding females than younger but did not preferentially associate with older follow them Results best support hypothesis that benefit from detection deterrence. Aggregations roaming between asynchronously may persist period because benefits survival outweigh relatively minor costs competition.