Determinants of vigilance behavior in the ring-tailed coati ( Nasua nasua ): the importance of within-group spatial position

摘要: Individuals living in social groups are predicted to live under unequal predation risk due their spatial location within the group. Previous work has indicated that individuals located at edge of have higher “domains danger”, thus more likely engage vigilance or antipredator behavior. We studied determinants behavior two ring-tailed coatis Iguazu National Park, Argentina. In addition expected pattern were vigilant group, we found particularly front This conforms predictions differing caused by sit-and-wait predators with respect mobile animal groups. addition, exhibited less when number neighbors 5 m and group size increased. Of three variables tested, within-group position was most important predictor variable determining levels. These results confirm major effects on behavior, directionality is an factor which should be taken into account measuring Coatis juveniles than 6 months old The presence these young also affected relationship between alarm response after strong reactions, but only not present may indicate give differential responses calls depending age caller. A comparison sympatric capuchin monkeys consistent hypothesis terrestriality leads perceive for coatis.