Behavior of the Tree Shrew, Tupaia chinensis, in Captivity

Abstract

A colony of Tupaia chinensis (initially 24 animals) was observed daily for 10 months. Additional studies were made for 1 month on smaller groups of animals in outdoor cages. The tree shrews were fed a varied diet and their cages were arranged to simulate a natural habitat. Data were based on 245 hr of observation. The tree shrews exhibited a bimodal activity cycle; most activity occurred about 5:00 PM when 65 % of the colony was active. Intermittent periods of rest and activity occurred throughout the day and activity varied with temperature. Only females established a linear dominance hierarchy. One male was dominant and males were not social among themselves. Females maintained their linear ranking with chases and threatening postures but seldom with biting. The dominant male bit other males and most subordinate males died during the study. The dominant male marked areas in the cage with anal and gular gland secretions. Marking occurred during aggressive and reproductive episodes. Only the dominant male copulated with females. Females exhibited estrous cycles of 8-9 days, 22-23 days and 32-39 days, as well as a 43-46day gestation period followed by postpartum estrus. Nine litters of two offspring each were born and eight of the young were cannibalized. No seasonality of copulations or births was evident. Ovulation seemingly was induced by copulation. Sonagrams were made of five distinctive calls. Some vocalizations accompanied specific behavior patterns; others were emitted in generalized situations. Varied types of grooming were observed. Allogrooming seldom occurred and reciprocal grooming was observed only between two females.