Dispersal and philopatry in the European badger, Meles meles

摘要: In comparison with other carnivores, European badgers, Meles meles L., show an unusually high degree of natal philopatry. this paper, we present data on temporary and permanent movements between groups, in both male female a moderately density population. A relatively small proportion males dispersed, alone, to neighbouring territories. Dispersing were larger than those remaining their following dispersal they had higher testosterone titres maintained testicular activity for greater part the year. Circumstantial evidence suggests that immigrants principal breeding new Dispersal was slightly more common females, which dispersed away from large where chances low. Females coalitions 2–3, over longer distances, territories occupied by single females. Resident females disappeared arrival immigrants, suggesting territory ‘takeovers’ may have occurred. Members sexes also made ‘visits’ territories, probably obtain extra-group matings. Comparison badger populations frequency declines at population densities. contrast, there is no effect dispersal, occurs only rarely some populations. We suggest pattern female/female competition too complex be explained solely terms variation density.