Mating Behavior and Factors Influencing Paternity in a Semi-free Ranging Population of American Black Bears, Ursus americanus

摘要: Mating behavior and factors influencing paternity in a semi-free ranging population of American black bears, Ursus americanus Ramona L. Gonzales California State University San Marcos, 2012 Advisor: Dr. Thomas Spady Captive breeding programs wildlife managers are challenged with maintaining bear populations, including the six (of eight) species that endangered or threatened. Therefore, need for complete thorough information on mating is critical. While bears not endangered, they provide model from which to learn valuable can be applied other species. The thesis presented herein contains most comprehensive documentation each stage consummatory phase americanus. In addition, it includes preliminary data potentially influence this Chapter 1 provides an overall introduction hypotheses. chapter 2, we quantify evidence male using chemosensory signals assess female’s estrous state. 2 “stand-alone” document will submitted publication. We present our results 3 discuss what these suggest about how may body size, induced ovulation sperm competition as sexual selection strategies. female fertile more than one their multiple estruses.