Topic description and stories

Breeder meerkats age faster, but their subordinates still die younger

31 Aug 2018

Despite rapidly ageing, dominant animals live longer because their underlings are driven out of the group – becoming easy targets for predators. The...

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No simple way of predicting breathing difficulties in pugs, French bulldogs and bulldogs from external features

01 Aug 2017

As many as a half of all short-nosed dogs such as pugs, French bulldogs and bulldogs experience breathing difficulties related to their facial...

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Meerkats

Cooperation helps mammals survive in tough environments

24 Jan 2017

New research suggests that cooperative breeding makes mammal species such as meerkats better suited to dry, harsh climates.

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Opinion: How to save inbred, short-faced dogs such as pugs and bulldogs from poor health

02 Aug 2016

David Sargan (Department of Veterinary Medicine) discusses the health implications of breeding the perfect pets.

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Sub-adult meerkats playing.

Female meerkats compete to outgrow their sisters

26 May 2016

Latest research shows subordinate meerkat siblings grow competitively, boosting their chance of becoming a dominant breeder when a vacancy opens up...

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The African Golden Weaver, Zanzibar

Opinion: There’s a reason why Africa’s migratory songbirds sing out of season

09 May 2016

Claire Spottiswoode (Department of Zoology) and Marjorie Sorensen (Goethe University Frankfurt am Main) discuss why several species of migratory...

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Monogamy evolved as a mating strategy

29 Jul 2013

New research indicates that social monogamy evolved as a result of competition for females.

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