Besides vocalizations, what scent-based method do wildebeest use to guide the herd during movement?
Answer
Secretions from pedal glands on their feet to lay scent trails
Wildebeest rely heavily on scent communication in addition to their loud grunts and moans. For directional guidance during movement, they utilize secretions produced by specialized pedal glands located on their feet. When moving, they deposit these secretions onto the ground, effectively laying down scent trails that subsequent members of the herd can follow. This method works in concert with preorbital glands near the eyes, which are used for social bonding, often involving rubbing behavior between individuals.
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