Regurgitation feeding of young in harvest mice, Micromys minutus (Rodentia: Muridae)

Abstract

Regurgitation feeding of young is regarded as a behavior specific to the Canidae among mammals. In this study, we document regurgitation feeding by female harvest mice, Micromys minutus. We gave a composite ball made from sunflower seeds and small pieces of blue plastic to lactating females. Subsequently, some pieces of plastic were found in the digestive tracts of young with whom the mother had displayed regurgitation-like behavior. Regurgitation feeding started on the day of parturition and continued through weaning, but a switch existed in quality and quantity of behaviors related to regurgitation at ca. 9 days postpartum in this species.