Abstract

The breeding behavior of tree squirrels ( Tamiasciurus douglasii ) was studied over a period of 3 years in California. The breeding season was 4 to 5 months long. Adults defended individual territories, but female territoriality toward males was relaxed during the breeding season. Males extended their territories into female home ranges, directing their territorial behavior toward other males. In mating bouts, the dominant males were those that were known or suspected to have previously acted territorially in the area of the bout. Although females often mated with subordinate males, dominant males had higher mating success than the average subordinate.

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