Anti-predator behavior in response to weasel odor in plateau zokor

Predator odors are natural stressors of high ethological impact that induce a broad range of anti-predator responses, which aim to maximize the fitness of individuals through avoidance of dangerous confrontations. To analyze the response of the plateau zokors (Eospalax baileyi) to predator odors and the trade-offs between anti-predator responses and foraging, we tested the anti-predator behavioral responses of plateau zokors to the scent of weasel (Mustela sibirica) feces using distilled water as the control group. Plateau zokors were live-captured from the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau, and individual behavior was tested in a defensive withdrawal apparatus consisting of a hideaway tunnel and a testing arena for 30 min. Results indicated that feeding time and food intake were significantly reduced in males when exposed to weasel feces (P < 0.05). Food intake was also significantly reduced in females (P < 0.05), and there was no significant difference in feeding time (P > 0.05). When exposed to weasel feces, we detected a significant increase in the cumulative time and frequency of freezing, rearing, locomotion, and avoidance behaviors in both males and females (P < 0.05). However, there was no significant change in the cumulative time and frequency of hiding and heading out (P > 0.05). In summary, the odor of weasel feces significantly affects food intake and triggers the expression of various anti-predator behaviors in plateau zokors. These behavioral adaptations to predation threats might support the functional significance of the predation risk time-allocation hypothesis.