Table 2 Marking behavioural units displayed by pampas deer males (Ozotoceros bezoarticus).
From: Reproductive biology of the pampas deer (Ozotoceros bezoarticus): a review
Behavioural unit | Behaviour in the male |
|---|---|
Frontal marking | Brisk swinging head motions, either lateral or vertical, rubbing both antlers, simultaneously or alternately. Frequently performed with the tail raised, showing the perineal region. |
Rubbing | A beating and twisting of the brush and small limbs, initially in the stripping of the velvet and consequently, although perhaps incidentally, in the polishing of the antlers |
Antler trashing | The chafing of the basal antler parts against the trunks of small trees |
Pre-orbital marking | Stands with the neck stretched, pressing the gland against an object, with short and energetic up and down movements |
Front leg marking | Performed with the neck slightly below the shoulder height, scratching the ground with the front hooves, frequently alternating the hooves |