First record of allonursing in golden jackal (Canis aureus, L. 1758): a case of double breeding and communal denning within the same social unit

Abstract

In the last decade, there has been a remarkable increase in the number of scientific publications on the ecology of the golden jackal Canis aureus , whereas information on its reproductive biology is still scanty, and the basic reproductive parameters of the species are not yet fully understood. In 2021, we began a research project in North-Eastern Italy, where the golden jackal is strictly protected under the National Law, to investigate the species behavioural ecology and reproductive biology at the den site, as a key element for defining conservation measures. Within this project, we documented allosuckling behaviour, possibly related to the breeding of two females within the same social unit, with den sharing and communal nursing of the cubs. Our observations open new scenarios and raise questions on the reproductive biology and social organisation of the golden jackal, stimulating further topics for research.

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