Now that Cane is not in heat (see previous update), Lupe has focused his activities elsewhere: the unsuspecting Caon. Last week Caon was apparently in heat and Lupe would not leave her alone. As you can imagine, Caon's more dominant sister (Cane) was not too pleased and regularly disaplined Caon by pinning her. I took some good pictures of their activities (see below) with one omission: a lack of pictures of Lupe actually being agonistic towards Cane by chasing her aggressively away from Caon and him. Of course Cane would chase Caon at any opportunity that Lupe gave her but for the most part Cane hung out around me (literally on my lap) when I was in with them in order to avoid Lupe. The following is a pictorial account of Lupe courting Caon. Note how he constantly is around or following Caon, while she is in heat (estrus). Of course the situation is a little abarrent because they are siblings in captivity but I believe it is a very accurate portrayal of what might occur in the wild with a mated pair (which is usually unrelated). Remember that Lupe received a vasectomy as a pup to prevent any inbreeding within this group.

Unlike when Lupe mated with Cane, these copulations with Caon did not produce any copulatory ties that I witnessed at least (see bottom of this page).

Even with Caon pinned (by Cane on top) Lupe would sniff her; Caon alert, watching for Lupe.

Lupe enthusiastically following Caon. He seemed to be constantly panting when both females were in heat - clearly reflecting his intense level of excitement.

Lupe courting Caon Caon snapping at Lupe when he tried to mount her.

With all of his effort, he did succeed a couple of times.

Click here to see pictures in spring 2004

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