Nocturnal behavioral patterns of African ungulates in zoos.

ABSTRACT: Currently, most studies on ungulates' behavior are conducted during the daylight hours, but their nocturnal behavior patterns differ from those shown during day. Therefore, it is necessary to observe ungulates' behavior also overnight. Detailed analyses of nocturnal behavior have only been conducted for very prominent ungulates such as Giraffes (Giraffa camelopardalis), African Elephants (Loxodonta africana), or livestock (e.g., domesticated cattle, sheep, or pigs), and the nocturnal rhythms exhibited by many ungulates remain unknown. In the present study, the nocturnal rhythms of 192 individuals of 18 ungulate species from 20 European zoos are studied with respect to the behavioral positions standing, lying-head up, and lying-head down (the typical REM sleep position). Diffe

SUBMITTER: Gubert J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10694388 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature