Effects of the presence of the father on pup development in California mice (Peromyscus californicus)

Pup development and behavior in California mice were studied in litters housed with single mothers, or with fathers and mothers living together Behavior of pups was recorded during a 15-min session every 2 days from 10 to 30 days of age. Physical contact, locomotion, grooming, and physical development indicators were recorded. It was found that the physical contact between siblings was greater and there was a tendency to have more contact between pup and either parent in the group in which the father was present. Finally, it was noted that the presence of the father did not affect either the first appearance of pup behavior during development or physical growth. In conclusion, the results indicate that the presence of the father had a greater influence on social contact between the different members of the litter than on pup behavioral development and physical growth. (C) 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.