Behavioural studies on the Fishing cat cub Prionailurus viverrinus in captivity

The Fishing cat (Prionailurus viverrinus Bennett, 1833) is a charismatic species having a diverse array of interesting and unique behavioural pattern. Most of the studies have focused on territorial behaviour and hunting strategies of these animals. Though, parental care behaviour is an important part of their reproductive ecology, little is known about this intriguing behaviour. A proper scientific understanding of the concerned species can help in determining specific measures required for their successful breeding and the captive management in an effective way. The study was conducted at Garchumuk Zoological Park, Howrah, West Bengal (22.34560 N Latitude and 88.08580 E), which also acts as the Ex-situ Conservation Breeding Centre for the State Animal of West Bengal Fishing cat. For monitoring the array of behaviours ad-libitum sampling method was done, followed by Focal sampling method considering all occurrences. T he present study was conducted over a period of two years, emphasises on the role of both male and female parents on the cubs through active parental care and learning behaviour of the cubs from parents. The mother Fishing cats are dedicated caregivers who give their kittens essential nutrition, protection, and socialisation till a particular age, which gradually reduces with the time. Though male parents have a lesser contribution in active parental care, but their involvement is still distinguished as it is noticed in some instances that, the cubs learn from them. The study in captive environment has provided an inimitable prospect to observe and collect data on the specific animal behaviour adaptations including learning strategies, free from the constraints and dangers of wild environments. The findings can have significant implications for designing the conservation and management strategy of Fishing cat populations, highlighting the need to protect family unit along with their habitats with linkages to the reintroduction programs.