Interrelations of individuals within family groups and possible reasons for disintegrating litters in lynxes (Lynx lynx, Carnivora, Felidae)

摘要

Correlation of different contacts (identification, aggression, plays, sexul contacts, allogrooming, butting)in interrelations of lynxes (Lynx lynx) within family groups at different stages of ontogenesis was investigated. Prevalence of play contacts and allogrooming is revealed; percentage of aggressive contacts did not exceed 5%. A hypothesis of disintegrating lynx litters through increasing aggression in animals within family groups as well as other possible reasons are critically considered.