Ultrasound and mating behaviour in rodents with some observations on other behavioural situations

Abstract

Ultrasounds have been detected during mating behaviour in all 11 species of myomorph rodents in which this behaviour has been observed. The signals produced by each of the species studied are described. In all species except hamsters, these signals appear to be produced by the male. Ultrasounds have also been detected from rodents in other situations such as during and after disturbance and when placed in new surroundings. The possible significance of these ultrasonic signals in the lives of rodents is discussed.