Parental behavior of the volcano mouse, Neotomodon alstoni (Rodentia : Muridae), in captivity

Paternal behavior of the volcano mouse (Neotomodon alstoni) was studied and its role in the care of young compared with that of the female. Paternal b ehavior of this rodent under laboratory conditions consisted of direct and indirect activities, such as huddling, grooming, sniffing, and retrieving y oung as well as maintenance and vigilance of the nest. The male volcano mou se exhibited all components of parental behavior displayed by mothers, exce pt suckling. However, the male participated significantly more than the fem ale in huddling, grooming, and sniffing. The existence of paternal behavior in this rodent suggests that under natural conditions this species exhibit s a monogamous mating system because monogamy in rodents is often associate d with paternal care.