Temporal relationships, transitions and structure of the behavioural repertoire in male apennine chamois during the rut

摘要: The reproductive behaviour of adult male Apennine chamois was studied during 4 rutting seasons in the Abruzzo National Park, Central Italy. analysis temporal relationships between patterns male-male and male-female repertoires has allowed to group together functionally associated. Courtship activities were much more predictable fixed than behaviours interactions. Qualitative quantitative variations main have been evaluated throughout rut. November 8-12 marked start intense phase Two 3 species-specific courtship appeared peak rut (November 23-27). Older males grouped successfully defended larger harems, containing a greater number prime females. Males herded females mainly by Head Down threat, both still moving postures. aggressive connotation Snort, an usually assumed "alarm" call, here discussed harem formation context. sequence described. function female reactive urination this A holder did not only prevent from leaving, but he had also deal with competitors. Usually long agonistic interactions occurred before Rush or Chase ended up contest 2 males. Neck Up presented as effective posture display "Attention Guiding Adaptations" present body morphology chamois. Direct correlations found age (i.e. dominance) intruder distance at which it pursued away holder, well Marking/Horning activity latter. frequency utterance Rut Call built 60% all recorded (N = 8059). It used often (36.3 % ; N 102) initiate vocal dominance display. Harem holders showed positive correlation call progression. last aspects suggest strong similarity what for red deer assessing contenders' ranks enhancing oestrus comparison that reported other Rupicapra taxa indicated close affinity Pyrenees subspecies detectable differences northeastern