Current ResearchSpotted hyenas are an excellent model organism for studying nepotism, the preferential treatment of kin. These gregarious carnivores live in groups, called clans, that consist of multiple matrilines and have a rigid dominance hierarchy. Members cooperatively defend their clan's territory and kills from other hyena clans and lions. Additionally, spotted hyenas have evolved the specialized ability to crack open large bones. As a result, hyenas' skulls do not fully mature until the individual is almost 3 years of age.
Hyenas have a challenging 2 year period between weaning and full feeding proficiency. These young hyenas with immature skulls are severely handicapped at the highly competitive carcass feedings. Mortality is high, but survival is greatest for youngsters whose mother’s remain in the population after weaning. Maternal care and aggression is believed to be essential in ensuring that offspring survive this period and have access to sufficient food resources. The effect of closely related kin has not been examined, but hyenas can distinguish kin and are more likely to form coalitions with kin. My research will focus on the mechanisms females use to obtain resources for their offspring, and I will work to elucidate the role of kin. I also plan to look at conflicts and competition among kin. |
Research Interests
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