By Nanna M. Andersen | Published: 28.08.21 | Edited: 13.12.23
This article discusses the comparison between rats and dogs in terms of dominance and hierarchy, as well as the misconception surrounding the concept of an "alpha" in animal communities. It also touches upon the debunking of the alpha-based hierarchy in wolves by L. David Mech. The idea of an alpha male or alpha female in animal groups, including rats, originated from a study conducted by Rudolf Schenkel on captive wolves in 1947. However, L. David Mech's research has shown that the concept of an alpha in wolf packs is misguided. In the wild, the alpha male and female are merely the breeding pair and parents of the pack. Contests for dominance are rare, if they occur at all. Mech's 13-year study of a wolf pack did not witness any such contest for dominance. Mech argues that calling a wolf an alpha is no more appropriate than referring to a human parent as alpha. Any parent is dominant to its young offspring, so the term alpha adds no useful information. Instead, Mech suggests referring to an alpha female as the female parent, the breeding female, the matriarch, or simply the mother. This emphasizes the animal's role as a progenitor of the pack, which is critical information. The misconception surrounding an alpha-based hierarchy in rats is often drawn from parallels with dogs and wolves. The belief is that alphas control the group and resources such as mates, food, water, and shelter. However, the social structure in rats is much more complex. While rats in a group may not always be related, they adhere to a social structure created by the members. When introducing young rats to an existing group, a new social structure is formed, but the older and bigger rats typically retain their social positions as leaders. A rat's personality plays a significant role in its position within the group and how it interacts with others. Rats can be divided into three categories based on their personalities: sensitive rats, happy-go-lucky rats, and assertive rats. Sensitive rats startle easily, prefer stability, and may exhibit defensive or shy behavior. Happy-go-lucky rats get along with everyone and have a generally gentle disposition. Assertive rats are confident and are often mistaken for alphas due to their assertiveness, but they can be docile and easy-going under appropriate conditions. It's important to note that poorly bred, aggressive, or sickly rats should not be mistaken for the aforementioned personality types, as there is more going on than just the personality. Genetics and environmental factors, such as trauma, neglect, or small changes in the environment, can also influence a rat's behavior within its group and with humans. Reference
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