Observations on social interactions in captive Père David's deer (Elaphurus davidianus)

Abstract

Social organisation was studied in a herd of Père David's deer (Elaphurus davidianus) at Chester Zoo. Aggression shown by the oldest male to females and younger males occurred throughout the year, but peaked during and just after the rut. Some female aggression to other females was evident throughout the year, and to the younger males just after the rut. Associated sexual behaviour of the males included grass-thrashing with the antlers, roaring and flehmen.