[Structure territoriale de la population et relations intraspécifiques de Marmota sibirica dans le Touva. Territorial structure of the population and intraspecies relations of Mongolian Bobaks (Marmota sibirica) in Tuva].

Résumé

The structure of population, pattern of utilization of the territory and interrelations of Mongolian bobaks (Marmota sibirica Radde) were studied in 1976-1980 in the Tuva (suslik) plague natural focus. Two types of families stable and unstable, were isolated. The stable families were characterized by the constant high numbers (7 to 13, up to 18), less intensive alternation of the composition, long-term existence, larger territories (up to 5.2 hectars). The complexes of stable and unstable families constitute the colonies the stability of which depends on the ratio of these types of families in them. The interrelations of animals are peaceful. The aggressive acts were noted in males from the unstable families. The integrity of familial groups is maintained by mechanisms of individualization of the territory: in the complex stable families - by the high degree of territory marking (in particular, visual and auditory), in the unstable families - by specific behavioural reactions (in particular, aggressive behaviour).