Flank gland cues in the female Syrian hamster's mate choice : an honors thesis [(HONRS 499)]

Abstract

Eight female Syrian hamsters were given a choice between a familiar male vs. a novel male in a plexiglass arena (120 cm. x 120 cm.). Familiarity is determined by the female's previous exposure to the flank gland odor of the familiar male. The study demonstrates a positive relationship between female mate choice and flank gland familiarity.