Persistence of vigilance and flight response behaviour in wild reindeer with varying domestic ancestry.

摘要: Knowledge about changes in behavioural traits related to wildness and tameness is for most mammals lacking, despite the increased trend of using domestic stock re-establish wild populations into historical ranges. To test persistence reindeer (Rangifer tarandus L.) exposed hunting, we sampled DNA, vigilance flight responses herds with varying ancestry. Analyses 14 DNA microsatellite loci revealed a dichotomous main genetic structure reflecting their native origin, Rondane genetically different from others least differentiation towards Hardangervidda reindeer. The clustering Norefjell-Reinsjofjell, Ottadalen Forollhogna, together reindeer, supports predominant origin these herds. Despite extensive hunting all herds, measures indicate increasing vigilance, alert dissimilarity Vigilance frequency time spent vigilant were higher compared Hardangervidda, which again than origin. We conclude that previous domestication has preserved hard wired trait some exhibiting less fright humans has, but only slightly, altered. This brings novel relevant knowledge discussions diversity wildlife general Norway specific.