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Sex differences in temporal parameters of partner preference in prairie voles (Microtus ochrogaster)
DeVries, AC., & Carter Porges, C. (1999). Sex differences in temporal parameters of partner preference in prairie voles (Microtus ochrogaster). Canadian Journal of Zoology-Revue Canadienne de Zoologie, 77(6), 885-889. https://doi.org/10.1139/z99-054
Prairie voles (Microtus ochrogaster) are monogamous rodents in which both sexes form social preferences for a familiar partner. This species exhibits many of the characteristics of monogamy, including long-term social bonds, mate guarding, and biparental care. Although the behaviors associated with the development of partner preferences are superficially similar in males and females, the present study documents sex differences in the temporal parameters of partner preferences in prairie voles. Following nonsexual cohabitation, female prairie voles formed partner preferences more quickly and these preferences lasted longer than in males. These data indicate that sex differences exist in the development and maintenance of social preferences and may reflect differences in the reproductive strategies of male and female prairie voles