Female baboons with strong relationship to fathers found to live longer
If male baboons were subject to the same kind of cultural commentary as humans, the phrase 'deadbeat dads' might be called for, such is the primate's relatively limited involvement in raising their young.
But a study suggests that even their little effort might go a long way, with female baboons who experience a stronger relationship with their fathers when young tending to live longer as adults.
'Among primates, humans are really unusual in how much dads contribute to raising offspring,' said Prof Elizabeth Archie, co-author of the research from the University of Notre Dame in Indiana.
'Most primates' dads really don't contribute very much, but what the baboons are showing us is that maybe we've been under-appreciating dads in some species of primates.'
In the journal Proceedings of the Royal Society B, Archie and colleagues reported how they studied wild baboons in Kenya, focusing on 216 females fathered by 102 males, as confirmed by genetic data.
The team studied the frequency of grooming interactions between fathers and daughters during the first four years of the females' lives, as well as recording the total number of days fathers and daughters lived in the same group over that period. They then tracked how long the daughters lived as adults.
Archie said the team focused on female offspring because males often moved to other social groups as adults, making it difficult to track how long they live.
The researchers found that female baboons who, during the first four years of their life, lived in the same group as their fathers for longer and spent more time grooming with them, lived two to four years longer as adults than those who experienced weaker relationships with their dads. If only one of the two occurred, an increase of about two to three years was found, Archie added.
'A typical lifespan for a female baboon, if she reaches adulthood, [is] 18 years,' she said, noting that females tended to have offspring every 18 months or so. 'So living two to three years longer would allow her time potentially to have another kid.'
That, Archie added, might provide an incentive for fathers, given males were less able to fight others for mates as they get older.
'They can no longer compete for females, but what they can do is help their daughters,' said Archie. 'And if their daughters live a little bit longer, then the fathers will pass on more genes and have higher fitness because their daughters are living longer and having more kids.'
The researchers found that strong relationships between young females and adult males in general, or with males who were not their fathers, was not associated with an increase in females' survival as adults.
Archie said it was not yet clear why the strength of early-life relationships between daughters and fathers might affect females' survival as adults, but said a number of mechanisms could be at play.
Among them, she suggested fathers were more likely to step in should their daughters get into fights, or by sheer intimidation create a 'zone of safety' around them so they were less likely to have food stolen or be injured or harassed – helping them grow into healthier adults.
But, Archie noted, there was another possibility.
'Maybe it is just that healthy daughters have good relationships with their fathers, and they also live longer,' she said.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Yahoo
6 hours ago
- Yahoo
Experts celebrate as trail cameras capture once-in-a-lifetime photograph of 'forgotten' creature: 'The feeling was unbelievable'
A once-in-a-lifetime photograph of the Upemba lechwe has been published after one of the most endangered African animals momentarily paused for the camera. While the image is fuzzy, it clearly shows the endangered "forgotten antelope" standing in a grassy field — almost as if he's proudly posing for the now-famous photo. "The feeling was unbelievable," said Manuel Weber of the Department of Research and Biomonitoring at Upemba National Park, according to the Guardian. Researchers had feared they might not find any lechwe at all during the survey. But the camera told a different story. The antelope stopped for "literally a few seconds." What makes this photo so special? This sighting marks the first photographic evidence of a living Upemba lechwe since 2005, making it a significant breakthrough for the species and conservation efforts across the region. Experts estimate fewer than 100 Upemba lechwe remain in the wild, which makes every single sighting incredibly valuable. Researchers captured the photo in Upemba National Park, a remote region in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, where lechwe once roamed in far greater numbers. For years, conservationists worried the species might already be lost — wiped out by decades of poaching and habitat destruction. But during a recent aerial survey, researchers spotted one from above and managed to snap a quick photo. It's a small moment but a powerful one. "We hope this image becomes a rallying cry," Weber stated, according to the Guardian. "Because this may be our only chance to save this species." Protecting species like the Upemba lechwe doesn't just help preserve biodiversity — it also supports the livelihoods of nearby communities, bolsters food chains, and strengthens ecosystems that humans depend on. Smart management of our environment ensures more than just wildlife survival — it helps drive progress toward a cleaner, safer future for everyone. Cameras are proving to be powerful tools for scientists. While researchers used an aerial device for this image, conservationists often rely on trail cameras to non-invasively track elusive species and monitor their population health over time. Should the government be able to control how we heat our homes? Definitely Only if it saves money I'm not sure No way Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. Trail cams can also show when things are starting to go right — whether it's a species coming back, new babies being born, or animals returning to old migration paths. It's all proof that careful, thoughtful stewardship of the environment makes a real difference. When we manage habitats wisely, we're not just helping wildlife — we're protecting the systems that grow our food, filter our water, and support our communities. A healthy ecosystem doesn't just benefit the animals in it — it helps people, too. Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
Yahoo
9 hours ago
- Yahoo
Authorities issue warning after spotting dolphins in unexpected location: 'Vulnerable and unpredictable'
A bottlenose dolphin's surprise appearance in a small English harbor is sparking joy among onlookers — and warnings from conservationists. According to the BBC, the dolphin was first seen gliding through the waters of Lyme Regis Harbour in Dorset. While it has become a local spectacle, experts say the excitement could put the animal at serious risk. As a result, officials have launched Operation Seabird, a campaign aimed at protecting marine mammals from disturbance. The Marine Management Organisation, Dorset Wildlife Trust, and Dorset Police are working together to remind the public that dolphins, whales, and porpoises are protected by law. "The arrival of a dolphin in a small coastal community like Lyme Regis can be a source of wonder and pride," said Jess Churchill-Bissett, head of marine conservation, per the BBC. "But it's vital to remember dolphins are vulnerable and unpredictable wild animals, protected by law." Under U.K. law, intentionally approaching or disturbing a dolphin could result in up to six months in prison or an unlimited fine. Even well-meaning actions — like trying to swim with, touch, or feed the animal — can be harmful. "We all have a responsibility to respect their space, keep a safe distance, and understand how our actions can unintentionally cause harm or even constitute a criminal offence," Churchill-Bissett added. While the dolphin may appear playful or curious, experts warn that crowding, noise, or reckless boating can cause extreme stress to the animal. Such encounters are becoming more common as warming waters and human development drive marine life closer to shore. "By giving these animals space, observing them from a distance and acting responsibly, we help ensure their health and survival, so they remain a part of our coast now and for generations to come," Churchill-Bissett told the BBC. This type of human-wildlife interaction also reflects a deeper issue: as ocean ecosystems face pressure from overfishing, habitat degradation, and increasing global temperatures, animals are often pushed out of their natural environments in search of food or safety, bringing them closer to human activity. Do you think America is in a housing crisis? Definitely Not sure No way Only in some cities Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. To protect the dolphin and educate the public, officials have issued clear guidance: boaters should slow to under six knots, keep at least 100 meters (about 328 feet) away, and never try to interact with the animal. If the dolphin approaches on its own, people are urged to maintain a steady course and allow the animal to leave on its own terms. Globally, conservation groups are working to preserve marine habitats, regulate harmful fishing practices, and limit pollution that disrupts ocean ecosystems. These efforts are especially urgent as warmer waters and human development continue to shift the natural patterns of marine species. Respecting wildlife boundaries isn't just about protecting animals, it's about preserving the health of our oceans and coastlines for the communities that depend on them. Every safe, respectful encounter is a small step toward helping marine life thrive. Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
Gizmodo
10 hours ago
- Gizmodo
How to Become a Backyard Naturalist With Just Your Smartphone
In the early days of summer, backyards come to life. Warmer temperatures transform spring buds into lush greenery, coax insects from their winter slumber, and invite newborn animals to explore their surroundings on wobbling legs or wings. With smartphones, documenting this emerging wildlife has never been easier. These days, all the tools you need to become a backyard naturalist fit right in the palm of your hand. And while June is an especially good time to start, you can use your phone to observe organisms, identify species, and record sightings any time of year, no matter your location. It's more than just a hobby—scientists can use your data to conduct important research, allowing you to make contributions as a citizen scientist. 'Twenty years ago, if a researcher wanted to understand an ecological pattern, the main way to do that was to go out and collect data,' said Corey Callaghan, a global change ecologist at the University of Florida. 'But now with this smartphone revolution over the last 20 years, the number of observations recorded by everyday people—whether they're really into birding or just interested in the animals in their backyard—has exponentially increased the amount of data available to use,' he said. How Birdwatching Got Me to Finally Log Off and Actually Go Outside Gillian Bowser, a wildlife ecologist at Colorado State University, also recalls a time when a lack of digital tools limited research in her field. 'The data now is so much more accessible because of the smartphone,' she said. These devices are particularly useful because they record the precise location of each sighting and allow users to easily upload data to open-source platforms, she said. Gizmodo turned to Bowser and Callaghan for expert advice on becoming a backyard naturalist. They shared their favorite apps, pro tips, and explained how researchers like them use the data you collect to support science. Numerous apps can help you document wildlife, but some are easier to use than others. For those who are just getting started as backyard naturalists, iNaturalist is 'a really good entry point,' Callaghan said. This free app is available for both iOS and Android. It allows you to record observations, identify species, and share your data with other naturalists all in one place. Unlike specialized apps such as eBird or Picture Insect, iNaturalist can document any kind of organism. Once you download it, all you have to do is set up an account with your email address. Now, you're ready to start snapping photos of plants, birds, pesky neighborhood squirrels, and even that weird-looking bug in your bathroom. You name it—the iNaturalist community can probably identify it. The app does this through crowdsourcing, which means users work together to identify species. This fosters collaboration among experts, novices, and everyone in between. For extra help identifying species, you can also download iNaturalist's free companion app, Seek. Also available for both iOS and Android, Seek uses artificial intelligence to analyze images and determine which species you observed. 'Simply point your phone—with Seek turned on—at whatever, and it'll identify it for you,' Bowser said. The app will also provide background information about the species, such as whether it's native to your area, she added. Both Bowser and Callaghan recommend getting comfortable with iNaturalist before you start playing around with less beginner-friendly apps like eBird, eButterfly, or iSpy. Building a knowledge base through iNaturalist will help you progress to more specialized apps, they said. Charge your phone, put on some sunscreen, and pull your socks up over your pants, because it's time to observe some wildlife. Don't worry, you don't have to go trekking into the wilderness. There are plenty of fascinating species to be found in your backyard, local park, or even your window box. iNaturalist and Seek work well anywhere, including dense urban jungles and indoor spaces. Rule number one: 'Don't be discouraged,' Callaghan said. When you're first starting out, it can be especially difficult to snap photos of small, fast-moving creatures like a field mouse or a dragonfly. 'Patience is one of my biggest tips,' he said. You may not be able to take a clear picture of a tiny bee buzzing by with your smartphone, but there's plenty of scientific value in documenting plants or larger, slower-moving animals, too. That said, there are things you can do to make sure that you're generating good data. To get as clear a photo as possible, make sure your shot is in-focus and well-lit. You can tap your finger on the screen to bring your subject into focus, use your backpack or your hand to shade it if the Sun is too bright, or use the flash to illuminate it—though this may scare off some animals. You'll also want to get as close as you can to your subject while still prioritizing safety. It's okay to get up close and personal with a daisy or an earthworm, but bears, tick-carrying deer, or nesting birds—not so much. When in doubt, stay farther away. If you can do so safely, try to photograph your subject from multiple angles to capture all of its features. Finally, add some field notes to your observation. Some examples include a specific description of where the sighting occurred, how a plant smells or feels, or the number of individuals you saw. The more information you provide, the easier it will be to identify the species. More details also give scientists more data points to use. This may sound challenging, but you don't have to go it alone. Callaghan recommends checking out events hosted by your local Audubon chapter, like nature walks. Bowser noted that iNaturalist also lets users join or organize group projects. This pools your observations with others under a common theme, helping you connect with users who share your interests or live in your area. If getting outside isn't possible for you, you can document the species living inside your home. There's even an iNaturalist project specifically for indoor observations called Never Home Alone: The Wild Life of Homes. There's great value in 'even just knowing what we share our everyday urban lives with,' Callaghan said. Bowser recommends iNaturalist 'because of its ability internally to get things to research.' When you upload an observation, it becomes data that scientists can use to answer questions like, 'Are butterflies declining in New York City?' she explained. By default, all images, audio recordings, and observation data you upload will be given a Creative Commons license that allows others to use your content for non-commercial purposes, as long as they credit you. It also lets iNaturalist export your data to research partners such as the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) so that scientists can access it. You can choose not to license some or all of your data, which means others will need your explicit permission to use it. To change the default licenses for your account, sign into the iNaturalist website and navigate to Account Settings, then Content & Display, and scroll down until you see Licensing. As ecologists, Bowser and Callaghan use citizen science data to understand biodiversity patterns in space and time. Anyone can collect data that helps scientists track and conserve species. You may even discover a new one. The iNaturalist Montana Moth Project, for example, has identified some 4,000 previously unknown species, according to Bowser. 'There are millions of species that are undefined,' she said. While conducting citizen science is incredibly valuable, Callaghan stresses that apps like iNaturalist are designed to be fun. 'Use them for what you want,' he said. 'Go out and learn about what we share our backyards with.'
