Abstract
The role of the maternal environment in development of sexual behaviour was investigated by reciprocally cross-fostering two species of lemmings ( Dicrostonyx groenlandicus and Lemmus trimucronatus). Non-fostered and within-species-fostered animals served as controls. When adult, cross-fostered (CF) animals engaged in more contact social and sexual behaviours with the foster species than did controls. Lemmings reared by conspecific dams directed sexual behaviour exclusively toward conspecifics. Since CF animals also mated with conspecifics, cross-fostering appears to have resulted in a broadening of ‘species identity’ to include the foster species. These results suggest that neonatal learning of the species characteristics of the mother is important in the ontogeny of premating sexual isolation in these species.
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