Effects of Hierarchy Rank on Caching Frequency in a Captive Coywolf (Eastern Coyote) Canis latrans × lycaon, Pack

Authors

  • Jonathan G. Way Eastern Coyote Research, 89 Ebenezer Road, Osterville, Massachusetts 02655
  • Rebecca D. Cabral (Student), Barnstable High School, 744 West Main Street, Hyannis, Massachussetts 02601

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.22621/cfn.v123i2.699

Keywords:

Coywolf, Canis latrans × lycaon, Eastern Coyote, Canis latrans var., caching, dominance, food burying, hierarchy, Massachusetts

Abstract

Caching is useful because it ensures a consistent supply of food for animals. However, there is a relative paucity of data concerning which members of canid social units make the most caches. We provide data indicating that dominant members of a captive Coywolf “Eastern Coyote”, (Canis latrans × lycaon) pack did the majority (78%, n = 46 of 59) of caching. Caching is a common activity stereotypically performed by canids, and dominant members of a social unit tend to cache more often.

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Issue

Vol. 123 No. 2 (2009)

Section

Notes

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