Examining the effect of sociodemographic factors on feral horses' social networks

The benefits of sociality are not equitably shared among members of a social group. The position individuals occupy in social networks is key to maximizing their fitness and contribution to group cohesion, as well as stability in the network structure. Individuals' position in a social network is highly influenced by intra-group competition and affiliation; therefore, it should be assessed by examining various spatial-social variables. In this study, we examined the relationship between proximity, grooming and agonistic networks, controlling for genetic relatedness, and the effects of sociodemographic factors on the strength centrality (SC) of these social networks. We combined drone technology and social network analysis to test several hypotheses on 16 feral horse groups during three consecutive breeding seasons. Our results show a clear relationship between spatial and social behaviours, suggesting that proximity and grooming are intimately connected in promoting social bonding, and agonism may be a consequence of close proximity between conspecifics. Sociodemographic factors shaped the three network centralities differently. Females and higher-ranking individuals are more central in spatial networks, whereas younger ones may benefit from higher centrality in affiliative networks. Newly integrated individuals tend to be peripheral on spatial networks and engage more in agonistic behaviours; corroborating that integration into a new group is a costly process for females, ultimately leading to a decreased foaling rate. Individuals in multi-male groups showed higher SC in proximity, but not in agonistic networks, suggesting that a second male may play a role in decreasing overall intra-group competition. Our results provide a step forward in understanding the costs and benefits of network centrality in non-matrilineal societies and mechanisms leading to social cohesion, namely in populations under the constant threat of predation and human pressures.

Automated summary

The position individuals occupy in social networks is crucial for maximizing fitness and group cohesion. In this study, we examined the relationship between proximity, grooming, and agonistic networks in feral horse groups. We found that proximity and grooming are closely linked to promoting social bonding, while agonism may result from close contact. Sociodemographic factors influence network centrality differently, with females and higher-ranking individuals being more central in spatial networks and younger ones benefiting from higher centrality in affiliative networks. Our results shed light on the costs and benefits of network centrality in non-matrilineal societies and mechanisms leading to social cohesion.