| Abstract: | Examined social interactions of cycling female golden hamsters paired with ovariectomized animals (N?=?96) in large enclosures. Interactions were primarily agonistic and intense over the 4-day estrous cycle, as indicated by frequent occurrences of chase and flight behavior. Dominant and subordinate social ranks were established in the majority of pairs (96%) tested, and even Ss in sexual heat were capable of attacking and dominating their rivals. Furthermore, cycling Ss exhibited significantly more aggressive acts than ovariectomized opponents 1 day prior to sexual receptivity. No differences in fighting patterns were found between Ss on the other 3 days of the estrous cycle. Additional analyses revealed clear differences in agonistic elements, including flank marking, between dominant and subordinate Ss, regardless of whether they were gonadectomized or intact. Analyses also show that dominant Ss frequently chased and bit opponents during encounters within their nesting area. Data are examined for implications on the adaptive organization of female hamster agonistic behavior and the neuroendocrine regulation of species-typical behavior over the estrous cycle. (23 ref) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved) |
