The female effect-how female receptivity influences faecal testosterone metabolite levels, socio-positive behaviour and vocalization in male Southern white rhinoceroses.

摘要: Testosterone is known to be essential for sexual maturation as well the display of behavioural traits linked reproduction. At same time, external factors such presence receptive females may affect testosterone levels, stressing hormone's substantial role in reproductive success. It therefore major interest investigate links between androgens, behaviour and social environment especially species that rely on a resilient reproduction rate, white rhinoceros (WR). We collected faecal samples 16 male Southern WR (Ceratotherium simum simum) aged 1 44 years from 11 European zoos. Audio video recordings were simultaneously taken five study males sexually mature had direct contact with females. Our results showed positive correlation metabolite (fTM) concentrations progressing age up until adulthood followed by decline older males. While previous success did not show any effect, access resulted higher fTM levels. Thereby, remained at level regardless receptivity phase, while cohesion respective females, affiliative call rates Pant Hiss distinctly peaked during compared non-receptive periods. Conclusively, immediate poses female effect enhances overall androgen levels and, thus, might facilitate their However, androgens do seem main driver changes courtship or mating. By linking endocrinological socio-behavioural factors, we able provide an applicable basis non-invasive monitoring captivity, thereby contributing deeper understanding potential impairments whose population captivity remains fully self-sustaining.