Boyd T. Porter, Andrew W. Trites
Suckling attempts during winter by two non-filial Steller sea lion pups (Eumetopias jubatus)
Milk stealing and fostering care is rare among mammals (Packer et al. 1992). Such behaviour can benefit neonates and possibly the nursing foster mother (Roulin 2002, 2003). However, it also likely comes at a cost to the fostering mother and her dependent young. Neonates may increase their chances of survival by sneak-suckling unrelated females, or by obtaining milk with the consent of mothers of other neonates. However, chances are greater that females protective of their limited milk resources will aggressively prevent unrelated young from suckling. Risks of being bitten, attacked or killed by adult females presumably outweigh the potential benefits that might be achieved by sneak-suckling.
Mammalia, Walter de Gruyter
Print ISSN: 0025-1461
Volume: 68, 07/2004
Pages: 23 - 26
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