Mating relationships and breeding suppression in the dwarf mongoose

摘要: Abstract Dwarf mongooses live in packs containing a dominant breeding pair. The alpha female produces litters at regular intervals, usually three times per year. Other sexually mature females come into oestrus synchrony with the and occasionally become pregnant but may not raise their offspring. Some which had been visibly nursed young of other females. Early female's oestrous cycle male maintains proximity copulates her exclusively, attacking any adult males approach. Later he also beta mates female. pair are likely to be parents great majority born pack.