Sibling differences in litter huddle position contribute to overall variation in weaning mass in a small mammal

In altricial, litter-bearing species, huddling together with siblings during early life is a vital strategy to maintain a sufficiently high and stable body temperature. In this context, individual differences in huddling behavior within litters have been emphasized, as pups regularly occupying more central positions have relatively higher body temperatures, have quicker access to the mother’s nipples during nursing, and consequently show greater...