Factors modifying female social ranks in Ammotragus

Abstract

The Saharan arrui is characterised by an absolute dominance hierarchy, which is also near-linear and fairly stable, although female ranks may vary under some circumstances. Mating and parturition may cause an increase in the hierarchical status of females, while weaning of offspring and rank changes of the groupmates may lead to a lower status. Female ranks were related to age at the beginning of the study; whereas at the end, once some rank changes had occurred, the ranks were related to the current rank of the females’ mothers. Ranks were not related to the physical condition (adult body weight and length). It seems plausible that female rank variation is related to proximal factors affecting social behaviour, because a female may then challenge her hierarchical status and acquire a higher social position. Finally, management implications and relevance captive populations of domestic sheep and goats are discussed.