Study of Pre-Mating Behavior and Reproductive Indicators in Indian Rhinoceros (Rhinoceros unicornis) with Ethogram
Nayna Pandey
Department of Zoology, Dayanand Girls P.G. College, Kanpur, India.
Sunita Arya *
Department of Zoology, Dayanand Girls P.G. College, Kanpur, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
This study investigates the courtship behavior and reproductive indicators of Indian rhinoceroses (Rhinoceros unicornis) housed at Kanpur Zoological Park. Over a 12-month observational period, both behavioral and hormonal data were collected to better understand the pre-mating, mating, and post-mating phases in a captive environment. Using focal and Ad libitum sampling, specific behaviors such as scent-marking, tactile stimulation, and vocalizations were documented and correlated with hormonal trends derived from fecal and serum analysis. The findings reveal a strong reliance on chemosensory cues and subtle physical gestures during courtship, with hormonal synchronization playing a critical role in mating success. An ethogram was developed to categorize and standardize observed behaviors. The study highlights the importance of environmental enrichment, social structure, and hormonal monitoring in enhancing reproductive success in conservation breeding programs. These insights can inform better management practices in zoos and contribute to in-situ conservation efforts.
Keywords: Captive breeding, courtship behavior, estrus cycle, ethogram, Kanpur zoological park, reproductive hormones