Abstracts » Zoology and wildlife conservation

Finding a dominance order most consistent with a linear hierarchy: a new procedure and review

Article Abstract:

A method for arranging a group of individuals into a linear or near-linear dominance hierarchy is shown. Two requirements are employed in a prioritized manner to rearrange the dominance matrix to establish an order that is most consistent with a linear hierarchy. The criteria are: the minimization of the numbers of inconsistencies and the minimization of the total strength of the inconsistencies. The linear ordering process may be used for matrices of up to 80 individuals.

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Yellowhamers get fatter in the presence of a predator

Article Abstract:

The daily weight gain of captive Emberiza citrinella, commonly known as yellowhammers, given restricted amounts of food was monitored in the presence and absence of a predator, Accipiter nisus. Results reveal that the birds gained weight in the presence of the predator, contrary to predictions from theoretical models. The gain in weight may be the bird's response to foraging interruption or in preparation to evade a potentially dangerous situation.

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Why does dominance decline with age in wintering snow buntings?

Article Abstract:

The effects of age on dominance status were analyzed in natural populations of wintering snow buntings, Plectrophenax nivalis, from northeast Scotland. Analysis of dominance status in wintering snow buntings indicated the presence of a reversed age-related dominance pattern and the role of size in facilitating success during dyadic interactions. Furthermore, juvenile snow buntings exhibited higher average dominance ranks compared to male adults.

Aggressive behavior in animals, Animal aggression, Buntings (Birds)

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