Responses of Snow Voles, Chionomys nivalis, Towards Conspecific Cues Reflect Social Organization during Overwintering Periods

摘要: Among microtine rodents, reaction to chemical cues from conspecifics is assumed reflect social and spatial relationships. Generally, strong attraction of particular odours correlates with non-aggressive behaviour high tolerance towards odour donors, whereas weak greater levels aggression segregation. In the present study, we examined whether winter preferences snow vole Chionomys nivalis, a rock-dwelling principally found at high-mountainous regions, differ that other species, owing their different organization during overwintering periods. The structure C. nivalis over period relatively unusual among species in they become nomadic solitary. choice trials under laboratory conditions, both males females avoided zones conspecific sexes comparison unscented control or own odours. These results are consistent elevated intraspecific isolation Furthermore, scent-elicited self-grooming increased when was offered against cues. This, combination an active avoidance odours, might functionally contribute minimize direct confrontations between solitary individuals, thereby reducing risks aggressive encounters