How does a rat behave during estrus? - briefly
During the estrous phase, female rats display heightened locomotion, frequent scent‑marking, and a pronounced «lordosis» response toward male advances. They also emit «ultrasonic vocalizations» that accompany mating attempts.
How does a rat behave during estrus? - in detail
During the fertile period of the female rat, several distinct behavioral patterns emerge that signal sexual receptivity and facilitate mating. Hormonal fluctuations, primarily the surge of estradiol, trigger these changes.
The female exhibits increased locomotor activity, frequently exploring the cage and approaching conspecifics. She displays a pronounced “lordosis” posture when a male makes contact: the hindquarters are elevated, the back arches, and the tail is lifted, allowing intromission. This reflex is most robust during the late proestrus and early estrus phases.
Accompanying the physical stance, the rat emits ultrasonic vocalizations in the 50‑80 kHz range. These calls serve as an auditory cue to the male and are absent outside the receptive window. The vocalizations are brief, occurring during close interactions and often preceding lordosis.
Scent marking intensifies. The female deposits pheromonal cues on the bedding and her own fur, enhancing attractiveness to males. Urine and vaginal secretions contain estrus‑specific compounds that males detect via the vomeronasal organ.
Aggressive or avoidance behaviors diminish. The female’s tolerance for male advances increases, and she shows reduced territorial aggression toward other females. However, if presented with an unfamiliar male, brief bouts of defensive aggression may still occur until the male’s presence is recognized as a potential mate.
Male rats respond to these signals with heightened investigative behavior, increased mounting attempts, and rapid ejaculation. Their own ultrasonic vocalizations rise in frequency, and they display stereotyped pelvic thrusting synchronized with the female’s lordosis.
In summary, the estrous phase is characterized by:
- Elevated locomotion and exploratory behavior
- Presentation of lordosis posture upon male contact
- Emission of high‑frequency ultrasonic vocalizations
- Intensified pheromonal scent marking
- Reduced intra‑female aggression and increased male tolerance
- Male courtship intensification, including mounting and vocalizations
These coordinated actions ensure successful copulation during the limited fertile interval.