Conflict and assessment in a predator-prey system: ground squirrels versus rattlesnakes
Article Abstract:
Northern Pacific rattlesnakes, the main predator of ground squirrel pups, are actively harassed and confronted by adult California ground squirrels. A new study examines the roles of snake size and the location of encounter in rattlesnake assessment by ground squirrels. It is shown that squirrels appear to judge the level of risk when confronting rattlesnakes and are more cautious when approaching larger snakes. Maternal squirrels expend more effort on snake-directed activities, while all ground squirrels are more willing to confront snakes found close to their home burrows.
Publication Name: Animal Behaviour
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0003-3472
Year: 1999
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Assessment of rattlesnake dangerousness by California ground squirrels: exploitation of cues from rattling sounds
Article Abstract:
An analysis of the role of feedback to California ground squirrels, Spermophilus beecheyi beecheyi, during their interactions with northern Pacific rattlesnakes, Crotalus viridis oreganus, indicates that ground squirrel behaviour is significantly affected by acoustic signals detailing rattlesnake body temperature and body size. These signals become available as a type of feedback during interactions with rattlesnakes. The amount of effort devoted by squirrels to persistent antisnake activities is determined by the assessed level of risk presented by a particular snake.
Publication Name: Animal Behaviour
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0003-3472
Year: 1999
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Tail flagging by adult California ground squirrels: a tonic signal that serves different functions for males and females
Article Abstract:
Tail flagging by wild female adult ground squirrels in the absence of snakes was linked to how vulnerable their offspring were. Tail flagging in males, on the other hand, was linked to their own vulnerability. In the presence of a snake, however, no significant difference between tail flagging by males and mothers was observed. This study indicates that tail flagging has various functions. Tail flagging by males apparently affects adults and squirrel pups, while tail flagging by females only apparently affects adults.
Publication Name: Animal Behaviour
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0003-3472
Year: 1993
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