Alarm calling in yellow-bellied marmots: I. The meaning of situationally variable alarm calls
Article Abstract:
The alarm calls of yellow-bellied marmots are hardly externally referential, although calls vary in their rate and frequency in relation to the degree of risk that the caller experiences. Although variation in whistle frequency or rate may communicate variation in risk, it hardly indicates intraspecific variation in the mechanism used to communicate the risk. Marmots fail to use individual variation in acoustic parameters to communicate variation in risk.
Publication Name: Animal Behaviour
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0003-3472
Year: 1997
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Alarm calling in yellow-bellied marmots: II. The importance of direct fitness
Article Abstract:
Group-living yellow-bellied marmots' alarm call is a form of direct parental care behavior which is maintained by its role in maximizing direct fitness. Adult female marmots with pups call at higher rates than other age or sex classes, after pups emerge. Variables associated with direct parental care explain variation in the seasonal rate, as compared to variables reflecting the potential magnitude of inclusive fitness benefits.
Publication Name: Animal Behaviour
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0003-3472
Year: 1997
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A test of the acoustic adaptation hypothesis in four species of marmots
Article Abstract:
The acoustic adaptation hypothesis was examined using the alarm calls of four species of marmots living in different habitats and generating species-specific alarm vocalizations. The four species are the yellow-bellied marmot, Marmota flaviventris; Olympic marmot, M. olympus; hoary marmot, M. caligata; and woodchuck, M. monax. Results failed to support the acoustic adaptation hypothesis for these four species.
Publication Name: Animal Behaviour
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0003-3472
Year: 1998
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