Parental and alloparental care of giant otters (Pteronura brasiliensis) (Carnivora, mustelidae) in Balbina hydroelectric lake, Amazonas, Brazil

Abstract

Data collected during 6 years showed that alloparental care, despite not being mandatory, plays an important role in the reproductive success of Pteronura brasiliensis when major threats are present. Threats can also trigger cubs to be transferred from one den to another, inducing the species to leave a babysitter in the new den.