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A tale of tails: the function of tail-flagging behaviours in Eurasian red squirrels

Faculty Advisor

Date

2020

Keywords

Abstract (summary)

Publication Information

Visual signals are a relatively understudied form of communication in mammals yet may represent a significant way in which to communicate with conspecific and predator perceivers. Eurasian red squirrels produce a diversity of acoustic signals as well as several visual signals. One such visual signal is termed tail flagging behaviour. Here, individual squirrels will purposefully move their tails in an s-movement or flagging way. Currently there is no research on this flagging signal, its use or its potential function. We propose to conduct detailed analysis on the use and potential function of this behaviour by exploring through observation and experimentation, when these signals are produced and to whom they are often directed.

DOI

Notes

Presented in absentia on April 27, 2020 at "Student Research Day" at MacEwan University in Edmonton, Alberta. (Conference cancelled)

Item Type

Student Presentation

Language

English

Rights

All Rights Reserved