Lecture 4 Study Guide - Social Behaviors (PDF)

1 The introduction of six Magellanic penguins from Sea World in Aurora, Ohio, to the San Francisco Zoo in November 2002 could potentially lead to interesting observations regarding migration behavior. Here's how this situation might unfold: 1.Observations of Migration Behavior: 1. With the arrival o...

1 The introduction of six Magellanic penguins from Sea World in Aurora, Ohio, to the San Francisco Zoo in November 2002 could potentially lead to interesting observations regarding migration behavior. Here's how this situation might unfold: 1.Observations of Migration Behavior: 1. With the arrival of six new penguins from Sea World, zookeepers and researchers at the San Francisco Zoo may observe changes in the migration behavior of both resident and newcomer penguins. 2. Magellanic penguins are known for their annual migration patterns, where they travel long distances between breeding and feeding grounds. The introduction of newcomers may influence the migratory behavior of the resident penguins. 2.Integration of Newcomers: 1. The six newcomers from Sea World may initially face challenges in integrating into the existing penguin colony at the San Francisco Zoo. They may need time to establish social hierarchies and become familiar with their new environment. 2. Observations of their interactions with resident penguins and their adaptation to the zoo's facilities can provide insights into the social dynamics and behavior of Magellanic penguins. 2 3. Effect of Previous Experience: 1. The fact that the newcomers from Sea World are accustomed to swimming all winter suggests that they may have different behavioral patterns compared to the resident penguins at the San Francisco Zoo. 2. Researchers may observe whether the newcomers exhibit different swimming or foraging behaviors compared to the resident penguins, and whether their previous experience influences their adaptation to the zoo environment. 4.Research Opportunities: 1. The introduction of newcomers provides an opportunity for researchers to study various aspects of penguin behavior, including social interactions, communication, foraging strategies, and responses to environmental changes. 2. Long-term monitoring of the penguin colony can yield valuable data on the effects of introductions and migrations on individual behavior and population dynamics. In summary, the introduction of six Magellanic penguins from Sea World to the San Francisco Zoo presents an interesting scenario for studying migration behavior and social dynamics in captive penguin colonies. Observations and research conducted on these penguins can contribute to our understanding of penguin behavior and adaptation in different environments. 2 The observed migration behavior of the penguins at the San Francisco Zoo from December 24, 2002, to February 14, 2003, where they swam more than 6,200 miles (which is three times the typical migration length observed in the wild), is quite remarkable. This behavior suggests that the penguins at the zoo retained some of their natural instincts despite being in a captive environment. Here's a discussion on the potential implications and future occurrences: 1.Instinctual Behavior: The fact that the penguins migrated, despite being in captivity, indicates that migration may be an instinctual behavior deeply ingrained in their biology. This behavior is likely driven by factors such as seasonal changes, breeding instincts, and the search for food. 2.Monogamous Breeding Season: The timing of the observed migration coincides with the breeding season of Magellanic penguins, which typically occurs from September to February. During this time, penguins engage in behaviors such as burrow excavation, nest-building, and mate selection. Monogamy is also common among Magellanic penguins, where pairs bond for the duration of the breeding season. 3.Repetition in Subsequent Years: Whether this behavior will occur every year, following the wild pattern, depends on various factors. 1. Reproduction of Wild Behavior: If the penguins at the San Francisco Zoo 3 continue to exhibit natural behaviors observed in the wild, including migration, it is possible that similar migration patterns may occur in subsequent years. 2. Environmental Factors: The occurrence of migration may also be influenced by environmental conditions, availability of resources, and other external factors that could vary from year to year. 3. Individual Variation: Not all penguins may exhibit the same migratory behavior, and individual differences in behavior may also influence the overall pattern observed in the colony. 1.Research and Monitoring: Continued research and monitoring of the penguin colony at the San Francisco Zoo will provide valuable insights into their behavior and adaptation to captivity. Long-term studies can help determine whether migration becomes a recurring behavior and whether there are any changes or adaptations over time. In conclusion, while the observed migration behavior of the penguins at the San Francisco Zoo is fascinating and reflects their natural instincts, whether this behavior will occur every year following the wild pattern depends on a variety of factors. Continued observation and research will be essential for understanding the behavior of captive penguin populations and their responses to environmental cues. 3 Thank you for providing additional information from the San Francisco Zoo regarding the observed behavior of the penguins. Here's a summary and discussion based on this new information: 1.Unique Behavior in Captive Penguins: 1. The observed migration behavior of the penguins at the San Francisco Zoo was unique and had never been observed in captive penguins before. This suggests that the behavior was an anomaly rather than a regular occurrence. 2.Natural Behavior in the Wild: 1. In the wild, Magellanic penguins engage in specific behaviors such as gorging on food to gain weight (up to 40-50% of their body weight) in preparation for molting, which typically occurs in March. 2. During molting, they undergo a "catastrophic molt," where they lose essentially all their feathers at once. This process is crucial for maintaining their plumage and waterproofing for the next breeding season. 3.Variation in Fasting and Molting: 1. There is significant variation in fasting and molting activities among wild penguin populations. Some individuals may fast for extended periods, 4 such as the example of "Diva" at the San Francisco Zoo, who went 27 days without eating anything. 2. This variation highlights the flexibility and adaptability of Magellanic penguins to different environmental conditions and resource availability. 1.Implications for Captive Penguins: 1. The unique behavior observed in the captive penguins at the San Francisco Zoo underscores the challenges and complexities of maintaining natural behaviors in captivity. 2. While captive environments aim to replicate natural conditions as much as possible, factors such as diet, habitat, and social dynamics may differ from those in the wild, leading to unexpected behaviors or adaptations. 2.Future Considerations: 1. Continued monitoring and research of captive penguin populations are essential for understanding their behavior and welfare in captivity. 2. Observations of fasting, molting, and other natural behaviors provide valuable insights into the physiological and behavioral needs of penguins in captivity, guiding efforts to enhance their care and well-being. In conclusion, while the observed migration behavior of the penguins at the San Francisco Zoo was a unique event, it highlights the importance of understanding and accommodating natural behaviors in captive animal populations to promote their health and welfare. Ongoing research and observation will further elucidate the needs and behaviors of captive penguins, informing conservation and management efforts for this species. 4 The observations from the San Francisco Zoo provide interesting insights into the social behavior of captive penguins. Let's analyze the behaviors observed: 1.Colonial Behavior: 1. The penguins exhibit colonial behavior, indicating that they prefer to live in large groups or colonies. This behavior is common among many species of penguins, both in the wild and in captivity. 2.Lack of Social Hierarchy: 1. The absence of a social hierarchy suggests that there is no dominant individual or social structure within the penguin colony. This lack of hierarchy is characteristic of some colonial bird species where individuals cooperate and share resources without a strict dominance hierarchy. 3.Group Dynamics: 1. Penguins are described as flock birds, indicating that they tend to perform activities and behaviors as a group. This collective behavior is often observed during activities such as feeding, swimming, or even reacting to external stimuli. 4.Response to Alarm: 1. The observation that all penguins react when one individual yells "FIRE" suggests a strong sense of group cohesion and collective response to 5 perceived threats. This behavior is reminiscent of social facilitation, where the presence of others enhances individual performance or behavior. 5. Social Facilitation: 1. Social facilitation refers to the phenomenon where the presence of others influences an individual's behavior or performance. In the context of the penguins, the collective response to alarm signals indicates a form of social facilitation, where the presence of other penguins influences individual behavior, prompting a coordinated response. 6.Allelomimetic Behavior: 1. Allelomimetic behavior, also known as allomimetic behavior, involves behavioral activities that have strong components of social facilitation, imitation, and group coordination. The collective response of the penguins to alarm signals could be considered a form of allelomimetic behavior, as they mimic the behavior of the alarmed individual in a coordinated manner. In summary, the observations from the San Francisco Zoo suggest that captive penguins exhibit social behaviors such as group cohesion, collective response to threats, and coordinated activities. These behaviors demonstrate the importance of social dynamics and communication in penguin colonies, both in captivity and in the wild. 5 Social facilitation is a phenomenon observed in animal behavior where the occurrence or intensity of a behavior increases among individuals in a social group due to the actions or presence of other group members. Here are some key points about social facilitation: 1.Increased Occurrence of Behavior: Social facilitation occurs when the performance of a behavior by one individual influences other individuals to engage in the same behavior more frequently or with greater intensity. 2.Releaser Effect: The behavior exhibited by one individual acts as a releaser, triggering a similar response in other group members. This can lead to a chain reaction where the behavior spreads throughout the group. 3.Instinctive Patterns: Social facilitation often involves instinctive patterns of behavior, where the actions of one individual serve as a cue for others to engage in the same behavior. This can include activities such as feeding, mating, or vocalizing. 4.Energizing Dominant Behaviors: In some cases, social facilitation can energize dominant behaviors within the group. When one individual demonstrates a dominant behavior, it can stimulate similar behaviors in others, leading to increased activity or competition within the group. Overall, social facilitation plays a significant role in shaping the behavior of social animals, promoting cohesion and coordination within groups, and influencing the 6 dynamics of social interactions. 6 The cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus) faces a unique situation regarding genetic variability compared to many other species. Cheetahs have notably low genetic variability, which can be attributed to historical population bottlenecks and subsequent genetic drift. Here's an overview of the situation of genetic variability with the cheetah: 1.Historical Bottlenecks: Cheetahs experienced significant population declines in the past, likely due to factors such as habitat loss, human persecution, and competition with other large carnivores. These population bottlenecks have severely reduced the genetic diversity of cheetah populations. 2.Genetic Drift: With small population sizes, genetic drift becomes a significant factor influencing genetic variability. Genetic drift refers to random changes in allele frequencies within a population due to chance events. In small populations, genetic drift can lead to the loss of genetic diversity over time. 3.Inbreeding: Low genetic variability increases the likelihood of inbreeding within cheetah populations. Inbreeding can result in the expression of deleterious recessive alleles, leading to reduced fitness and increased susceptibility to diseases and other health issues. 4.Impact on Adaptability: Low genetic variability can limit the ability of cheetah populations to adapt to changing environmental conditions, such as habitat loss, 7 climate change, or the emergence of new diseases. Without sufficient genetic diversity, cheetahs may be less able to respond to selective pressures and may face increased extinction risk. 5. Conservation Efforts: Recognizing the importance of genetic variability for the long-term survival of cheetahs, conservation efforts often focus on strategies to maintain or increase genetic diversity within populations. These efforts may include genetic monitoring, translocations to introduce new genetic material, and captive breeding programs aimed at preserving genetic diversity. In summary, the cheetah faces challenges related to low genetic variability, primarily as a result of historical population bottlenecks and genetic drift. Addressing these challenges is crucial for the conservation of cheetah populations and ensuring their long-term viability in the wild. 7 8 Cheetahs have indeed captured the fascination of humans throughout history, leaving a trail of admiration and interaction across various civilizations: 1.Revered by the Pharaohs of Egypt: Cheetahs held a special place in ancient Egyptian society, often depicted in hieroglyphs and artwork. They were sometimes kept as symbols of royalty and grace, reflecting the Egyptian reverence for their speed and elegance. 2.Fascinated William the Conqueror: Historical records suggest that William the Conqueror, the Norman King of England, was captivated by cheetahs and may have imported them for hunting purposes. This indicates the admiration for the cheetah's hunting prowess and agility among European nobility during the medieval period. 3.Kublai Khan kept 1,000 for hunting: The Mongol ruler Kublai Khan was known for his vast hunting expeditions, which often included cheetahs. Records suggest that he maintained a sizable stable of cheetahs, numbering in the thousands, to assist in his hunting endeavors. This underscores the historical significance of cheetahs in the hunting practices of Asian cultures. 4.Amenable to taming/domestication: Cheetahs have historically been known to be more amenable to taming and domestication compared to other big cats. Various cultures throughout history have kept cheetahs as pets, hunting companions, and symbols of status. In ancient Egypt, for example, cheetahs were sometimes kept as 9 pets by wealthy individuals. Similarly, in India and other parts of Asia, cheetahs were trained for hunting purposes, particularly for capturing game such as deer and antelope. Overall, the history of cheetah-human interaction is rich and varied, spanning different continents and civilizations, with the cheetah's speed, agility, and beauty captivating the hearts and minds of people throughout the ages. 9 10 ChatGPT ChatGPT Cheetahs possess a unique set of characteristics that distinguish them as remarkable predators and athletes: 1.Species and Habitat: The cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus) is a large felid belonging to the subfamily Felinae. They are primarily found in eastern and southern Africa, with a small population also inhabiting parts of Iran. 2.Size: Adult cheetahs typically weigh between 75 to 120 pounds, with males generally larger and heavier than females. 3.Distinctive Head Shape: Cheetahs are known for their distinctive "bullet-shaped" heads, featuring a sleek profile that aids in minimizing air resistance during highspeed chases. 4.Aerobatic Grace and Physiological Adaptations: Cheetahs possess an extraordinary level of agility and grace, thanks in part to their oversized heart and respiratory system, which enables efficient oxygen delivery during high-speed pursuits. Their lean bodies and exceptionally long legs provide them with a stride length of up to 25 feet, facilitating rapid acceleration and unmatched sprinting capabilities. 5.Tail as Rudder: The cheetah's long and muscular tail serves as a crucial stabilizer 11 and rudder during high-speed pursuits, allowing them to make rapid turns and maneuvers with precision. 6. Speed: Renowned as the fastest land animal, cheetahs are capable of accelerating from a standstill to 70 miles per hour in just a few seconds, covering a quarter-mile distance in a burst of speed. This acceleration and speed make them incredibly efficient hunters, allowing them to swiftly close the gap between themselves and their prey. Comparing their speed to a sports car like the BMW M6 underscores the astonishing velocity and acceleration capabilities of cheetahs, emphasizing their status as nature's ultimate sprinters. 11 Indeed, cheetahs possess several distinctive characteristics that contribute to their unique identity and prowess as hunters: 1.Acinonyx: The genus name "Acinonyx" is derived from Greek, meaning "nonmoving claws." Unlike other big cats, cheetahs have semi-retractable claws that are more similar to those of canids (dogs). These claws lack full retractability and act more like cleats, providing traction during high-speed chases and enabling quick turns. 2.Jubatus: The species name "jubatus" comes from Latin, meaning "maned," and it refers to the dorsal crest or mane-like fur that runs along the cheetah's back, from the neck to the tail. This feature distinguishes cheetahs from other big cats, which typically lack such prominent fur patterns. 3.Facial Tear Streaks: Cheetahs are characterized by distinct black tear streaks that run from the inner corners of their eyes down to the sides of their noses. These tear streaks serve a functional purpose, helping to reduce glare from the sun during daytime hunts. Additionally, they may play a role in communication and social behavior among cheetahs. These unique characteristics contribute to the cheetah's adaptability and success as a specialized predator, allowing them to thrive in their natural habitats and maintain their status as the fastest land animals on Earth. 12 ChatGPT ChatGPT King cheetahs are a fascinating variation of the cheetah species, known for their unique appearance and rare genetic mutation. Here are some key points about king cheetahs: 1.Occasional Occurrence: King cheetahs are not a separate species but rather a rare morph of the standard cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus). They occur sporadically in wild populations due to a genetic mutation. 2.Distinctive Appearance: Unlike the typical spotted coat of regular cheetahs, king cheetahs exhibit a striking pattern of large, blotchy spots and three distinct dark stripes running from their neck to the tail. Their fur coloration is often cream-colored or slightly lighter than that of typical cheetahs. 3.Genetic Mutation: The unique appearance of king cheetahs is the result of a recessive mutation in the cheetah's coat pattern genes. Specifically, it involves a mutation in the gene responsible for the regulation of fur patterning. This mutation leads to the formation of the distinctive blotchy spots and stripes seen in king cheetahs. 4.Similarity to Tabby Cats: Interestingly, the gene responsible for the coat patterning 13 in king cheetahs is similar to the one found in domestic tabby cats. In tabby cats, this gene determines whether the cat will have a striped "mackerel" pattern or a blotchy "classic" pattern. The resemblance in genetic mechanisms highlights the evolutionary connections between different feline species. Overall, king cheetahs represent a rare and visually stunning variation within the cheetah population, offering insights into the genetic diversity and complexity of this iconic big cat species. 13 The discovery of the Transmembrane Aminopeptidase Q (Taqpep) gene's role in determining the coat patterns of cats, including both tabby cats and king cheetahs, represents a significant advancement in our understanding of feline genetics. Here's a breakdown of the key findings: 1.Identification of the Taqpep Gene: Researchers investigating the genetic basis of coat patterns in cats identified the Transmembrane Aminopeptidase Q (Taqpep) gene as a key player in determining whether a cat exhibits a mackerel or blotched coat pattern. 2.Association with Coat Patterns: Through genetic analysis and comparison of mackerel and blotched cats, scientists found a strong correlation between mutations in the Taqpep gene and the presence of specific coat patterns. Specifically, every blotched tabby cat examined had mutations in both copies of the Taqpep gene, while every mackerel cat had at least one copy without the mutation. 3.Influence on Coat Patterning: The Taqpep gene appears to play a crucial role in regulating the distribution and arrangement of pigment-producing cells (melanocytes) during fetal development. Mutations in this gene can disrupt the normal patterning process, leading to the formation of either mackerel or blotched coat patterns, depending on the specific genetic variations present. 4.Implications for King Cheetahs: The discovery of the Taqpep gene's involvement in 14 coat patterning sheds light on the genetic basis of the unique markings observed in king cheetahs. It suggests that similar genetic mechanisms underlie the formation of the distinctive blotchy spots and stripes seen in king cheetahs, further highlighting the evolutionary connections between different members of the Felidae family. In summary, the identification of the Taqpep gene and its association with coat patterns in cats, including king cheetahs, provides valuable insights into the genetic basis of feline diversity and offers a fascinating glimpse into the intricate mechanisms underlying the development of animal coat patterns. 14 The genetic mechanisms underlying coat patterns in cheetahs, including the distinctive markings observed in king cheetahs, involve a complex interplay between different genes. Here's a breakdown of the key points regarding the role of the Taqpep gene and its interaction with other genes in determining coat patterns: 1.Taqpep's Role in Coat Patterns: In cheetahs, the Taqpep gene does not directly control skin colors, but rather plays a central role in establishing the initial pattern of stripes or spots on the coat during embryonic development. Levels of Taqpep increase throughout gestation, and early on in development, Taqpep sets the groundwork for the arrangement of stripes or spots. 2.Interaction with Edn3 Gene: Another gene, Edn3, is active at the base of the black hairs in cheetahs. While Taqpep establishes the basic pattern, varying levels of Edn3 as the embryo grows contribute to the formation of the final coat pattern. This interaction between Taqpep and Edn3 allows for the differentiation between dark and light areas of the coat. 3.Development of Tabby Pattern: In domestic cat embryos, the tabby pattern becomes visible only after the hairs begin to grow at around 7 weeks of gestation. This timing suggests that the expression of genes involved in coat patterning occurs during early fetal development and becomes apparent as the embryo matures. 4.Stability of Coat Pattern: The role of Taqpep in setting the initial pattern early in 15 development explains why the number of stripes or spots remains relatively constant as the cat ages. Once the pattern is established, it is maintained throughout the cat's life, with minimal changes in appearance over time. By elucidating the interactions between genes such as Taqpep and Edn3, researchers have gained insights into the molecular mechanisms governing coat patterning in cheetahs and other felids. This understanding enhances our appreciation of the genetic diversity and complexity within the animal kingdom. 15 16 Characteristics of Cheetahs: Coat Texture: Cheetahs possess a rough coat that feels similar to Astro-turf, which provides an advantage as they have not been heavily hunted for their pelts. Fertility and Health: Cheetahs exhibit low fertility rates, along with a high incidence of birth defects and weak immune systems. Social Structure: Females play a dominant role in defining the social order. They are solitary animals that choose a mate and raise cubs alone. In contrast, males often form coalitions of siblings that hunt together and may stay together for life. Home Ranges: Male cheetahs typically have home ranges of around 860 square miles, while females have larger ranges, covering approximately 1,500 square miles. 17 Reproduction in Cheetahs: Induced Ovulation: Cheetahs are induced ovulators, meaning mating triggers a surge in luteinizing hormone (LH) to induce ovulation. Maturity and Estrus Cycle: Female cheetahs reach sexual maturity around 2 years of age. They are polyoestrus, experiencing an estrus cycle approximately every 12 days, with each cycle lasting 1-3 days. They can give birth again after 17-20 months and can mate with multiple males (polyandrous behavior). Gestation and Cub Development: Gestation in cheetahs lasts approximately 3 months. Cubs are born altricial, with a thick covering of long bluish-grey hair on their nape, shoulders, and back. Mothers frequently move their cubs to new dens for the first 6 weeks. Cubs start following their mothers at 6 weeks, and weaning occurs at 36 months. Offspring may stay with the mother for 13 to 20 months. 18 19 Genetic Variation and Multiple Matings in Cheetahs: Low Genetic Variability: Cheetahs exhibit low genetic variability due to a prolonged period of inbreeding following a genetic bottleneck around 10,000 years ago. Multiple Paternity: Female cheetahs often bear single litters with multiple fathers, with the fathers rarely being near neighbors. This behavior increases the odds of cub survival and contributes to genetic diversity. Alternative Hypotheses: Multiple matings in cheetahs may serve as a strategy to deter infanticide and avoid expending extra energy fending off potential suitors. 20 Indeed, what might be perceived as "promiscuity" in female cheetahs is actually an adaptive strategy that enhances their reproductive success and ensures the survival of their offspring. By mating with multiple males, female cheetahs increase the genetic variability within their litters, which can be advantageous in several ways: 1.Increased Genetic Diversity: Mating with multiple males introduces a variety of genetic traits into the offspring, potentially enhancing their ability to adapt to changing environments and resist diseases. This genetic diversity can increase the overall fitness of the population. 2.Reduced Risk of Infanticide: In some animal species, males may engage in infanticide, killing the offspring of rival males to increase their own reproductive success. By mating with multiple males, female cheetahs make it more difficult for any one male to discern paternity, thereby reducing the likelihood of infanticide. 3.Maximized Reproductive Success: By increasing the chances of fertilization with multiple mates, female cheetahs maximize their reproductive output. This strategy ensures that even if some offspring do not survive, at least one or more may reach adulthood and pass on their genes to future generations. 4.Adaptation to Environmental Challenges: In environments where resources are scarce or unpredictable, genetic variability can be crucial for survival. Offspring with diverse genetic backgrounds may have a better chance of thriving under varying 21 conditions. Overall, the apparent "promiscuity" observed in female cheetahs is not driven by social or cultural factors but rather by evolutionary pressures to maximize reproductive success and ensure the survival of their offspring in challenging environments. It represents a fascinating adaptation shaped by the dynamics of natural selection and reproductive strategies. Genetic Variation and Multiple Matings in Cheetahs: Low Genetic Variability: Cheetahs exhibit low genetic variability due to a prolonged period of inbreeding following a genetic bottleneck around 10,000 years ago. Multiple Paternity: Female cheetahs often bear single litters with multiple fathers, with the fathers rarely being near neighbors. This behavior increases the odds of cub survival and contributes to genetic diversity. Alternative Hypotheses: Multiple matings in cheetahs may serve as a strategy to deter infanticide and avoid expending extra energy fending off potential suitors. 21 22 Alternative Hypotheses for Multiple Matings in Cheetahs: 1.Energy Conservation Hypothesis: 1. MM may serve as a strategy to conserve energy for female cheetahs. Instead of expending extra energy fending off numerous suitors, mating with multiple males might be a more energy-efficient option. 2.Infanticide Deterrence Hypothesis: 1. MM could have evolved as a mechanism to deter infanticide. In some big cat species, males may kill cubs that are not their own. By mating with multiple males, female cheetahs make it difficult for any one male to determine paternity, thus discouraging infanticide attempts. 23 Cheetah: Reproduction In Captivity: Historical records show limited success in captive breeding. Notable instances include a live litter recorded in the 16th century by Mughal emperor Jahangir and three cubs born at the Philadelphia Zoo in 1956, all of which died within three months. Failures in captive breeding necessitate replenishing cheetah populations by capturing from the wild. 24 Cheetah: Challenges Historical Decline: Cheetahs have faced significant challenges, including heavy hunting for livestock and trophy purposes. Their population has declined drastically over the last century, from about 100,000 in 1900 to only 7,500-10,000 in the wild today. High Cub Mortality: A significant percentage (50-75%) of cheetah cubs die within months of birth. Genetic Issues: Studies have revealed genetic problems in cheetah populations, including shockingly low sperm counts and a high proportion of malformed sperm. Cheetahs exhibit low genetic variability, making them susceptible to diseases and environmental challenges. 25 Case Study: Genetic Problems Low Genetic Variability: Cheetahs exhibit virtual clone-like genetic profiles, with enzymes in their blood showing minimal variability compared to other cat species. Skin graft experiments between captive cheetahs demonstrate close tissue matches, indicating little to no immune system variability. Consequences: Low genetic variability renders cheetah populations susceptible to diseases. For instance, an outbreak of viral peritonitis (FIP) in 1982 at Wildlife Safari resulted in a 60% mortality rate among cheetahs, a significantly higher proportion than would be expected in a genetically diverse population. 26 27 28 Reproductive Successes Wildlife Safari: At Wildlife Safari, under the guidance of Dr. Marker, successful breeding operations have been conducted, raising over 100 cubs over 16 years. 29 Anatolian Shepherds Role in Conservation: Anatolian Shepherds, large Turkish guard/herding dogs, play a crucial role in conservation efforts. Dr. Marker's strategy involves assisting local ranchers in protecting their livestock from cheetahs, thus reducing cheetah killings. She operates a breeding program and provides puppies to ranchers, who then trap cheetahs and bring them to her for assessment, tagging, and release. 30 Cheetah: Conclusions Population Management: The establishment of the Cheetah Science Facility in Front Royal, VA, affiliated with the Smithsonian’s National Zoo, underscores ongoing efforts to study and conserve cheetah populations. While the worldwide population is currently around 10,000 individuals spread across 26 countries, challenges such as low genetic variability suggest that cheetahs may never become a robust species in the foreseeable future. 31 Cheetah: Strategies Include Protecting and Studying in the Wild: Efforts are directed towards conserving cheetah populations in their natural habitats while conducting research to understand their behaviors and ecology. Refining Breeding Techniques in Captivity: Captive breeding programs employ techniques like artificial insemination and the use of frozen semen to enhance genetic diversity. Female cheetahs are allowed to choose their mates, mimicking natural selection processes. Educating the Public: Public awareness campaigns aim to educate people about the importance of cheetah conservation and the threats facing these majestic animals. Assisting Farmers and Ranchers: Collaborative efforts with farmers and ranchers help protect livestock from cheetah predation, reducing the need for retaliatory killings and promoting coexistence. Sources: Cheetah Conservation Fund, World Wildlife Fund 32 33 The African Wild Dogs The African wild dog (Lycaon pictus) is a canid native to Sub-Saharan Africa, distinguished by its fewer toes and specialized dentition. These highly social animals live in packs with separate hierarchies for males and females. Unlike other social carnivores, dispersing individuals are mostly females, and young pups are allowed priority feeding on carcasses. Sources: Wildlife Pictures Online, National Geographic, Amazon, iStockphoto 34 Similar Situation in African Wild Dogs Inbreeding Avoidance: African wild dogs exhibit mate selection behavior as a means of avoiding inbreeding, crucial for their population's persistence. Computer simulations suggest that populations continuing to avoid incestuous mating may face extinction within a century due to a lack of unrelated mates. The decline in wild dog populations may exacerbate the challenge of finding suitable unrelated mates, impacting their future viability. Source: University of Glasgow 35 36 A Guide to the "Big Cats" For a comprehensive understanding of the big cats, including their behavior, habitats, and conservation status, a guide is essential. This resource provides valuable insights into the characteristics and distinctions of each big cat species. Source: Keyword Suggest 37 Classification Genus Panthera: The "Big Four" includes tigers (Panthera tigris), lions (Panthera leo), jaguars (Panthera onca), and leopards (Panthera pardus), collectively known as the "roaring cats." Other notable big cats include cheetahs (Acinonyx jubatus), pumas (Puma concolor), and lynxes (Lynx canadensis). 38 The "Roaring Cats" In roaring cats, the hyoid bone's flexible structure, coupled with a specialized ligament, facilitates roaring. Lions, with their partially ossified hyoid bone, can produce roars reaching 114 decibels. In contrast, cats, with completely ossified hyoids, purr at around 25 decibels. Source: Radiopaedia 39 Tiger Tigers (Panthera tigris) are the largest of the big cat species, with several subspecies, including Bengal and Siberian tigers. They sport vertical black stripes on an orange background, with unique patterns for individual identification. Tigers typically hunt alone and are skilled swimmers. Sources: Animal Facts Encyclopedia, Pinterest 40 Lion Lions (Panthera leo), the second-largest of the big cats, live in prides and exhibit social behaviors. While males boast manes, females undertake most of the hunting responsibilities. Source: Wikipedia 41 Jaguar Jaguars (Panthera onca), the third-largest of the big cats, possess a powerful bite and distinctive rosettes on their coat. They are the only big cat species native to the Americas and are skilled swimmers. Sources: Wikipedia, Blair Ritch 42 Leopard Leopards (Panthera pardus) are the smallest of the big cats and are known for their ability to climb trees. They lack the facial tear streaks characteristic of cheetahs and have closely spaced rosettes on their coat. Sources: Wikipedia, Blair Ritch 43 "Panther" The term "panther" is not a species but refers to melanistic leopards or jaguars with a black coat. Melanism results from a genetic mutation causing overproduction of pigment, turning the coat black while retaining the rosette pattern. Sources: Pinterest, Bruce Kekule 44 Puma Also known as cougar or mountain lion, pumas (Puma concolor) are distributed from Canada to South America. They are more closely related to domestic cats than to lions and often give birth to spotted cubs that lose their spots as they mature. Sources: [Carnivora Forum](http://carnivora 45 Lynx Etymology and Characteristics: The name "lynx" originates from Middle English, via Latin from the Greek word "leuk-" meaning "light" or "brightness," in reference to the luminescence of its reflective eyes. Lynx species are the smallest of the wild cat group, with several species present. Notably, the bobcat is the smallest among them. Adaptations: Lynxes have large, padded paws that act as natural snowshoes, facilitating movement on snow-covered terrain. Long whiskers on the face aid in sensing their surroundings. Ear tufts help in enhancing their hearing abilities. Habitat and Behavior: Lynxes are solitary animals found in various regions, including North America, Europe, and Asia. They typically inhabit forested areas and are known for their elusive nature. Image Source: Wikipedia Reference: Boredom Therapy 46 THM (Zoo Setting) Magellanic Penguins and Migration: In the zoo setting, Magellanic Penguins may exhibit social facilitation, where the presence of other penguins encourages individuals to engage in migration behaviors. This social influence can lead to synchronized movements among the penguin group. Cheetahs: Genetic Variability: Cheetahs face challenges due to low genetic variability, which can impact their health and survival. Mating Strategy: Cheetahs exhibit multiple mating behavior, a strategy that enhances genetic diversity within populations. Conservation Challenges: Maintaining cheetah populations in captivity poses challenges due to genetic issues and reproductive difficulties. African Wild Dogs: Inbreeding Avoidance: African wild dogs employ mate selection strategies to avoid inbreeding, thereby maintaining genetic diversity within populations. The Big Cats and Other Relatives: This likely refers to a broader discussion of genetic diversity, reproduction, and conservation efforts among various species of big cats and their relatives in zoo settings. 47 These topics highlight the complex dynamics of animal behavior, genetics, and conservation efforts in the zoo environment. 47