Babysitting

One or more other females showing interest in and/or direct care towards a calf when it is separated from its mother for a prolonged period. Babysitting is often seen when a calf has been orphaned or has strayed from its family. This category essentially draws on the protective and comforting behaviors of females in the specific situation of a calf that has been separated from its mother for at least several hours.

References: Bates et al 2008. (Full reference list)

This behavioral constellation includes the following behaviors: Allo-Suckling, Comfort-Suckling, Coo-Rumble, Trunk-to-Face, Trunk-to-Genitals, Trunk-to-Mouth and occurs in the following context(s): Calf Reassurance & Protection