Invalid care in the dwarf mongoose (Helogale undulata rufula)

Abstract

The responses of a captive family group of 12 Dwarf Mongooses (4 female and 8 male) towards a sick group member were recorded daily for 3 h over a 38 day period (until the animal died), these data being compared with those for a comparable control period. Changes in feeding rank order, resting site, resting duration and grooming frequency and duration were found, these being to the advantage of the sick individual. The probable adaptive significance of such behaviour is discussed.