Investigate - Anogenital

Overview and Meaning

After the actor mouse has attended and approached the recipient mouse, it will begin investigating the recipient's body. The anogenital region can be the first and only place the actor mouse investigates. If the actor begins exploring the anogenital region first, it will rarely explore the body trunk next.

 

Anogenital odors transmit a variety of information including identity, gender, and sexual receptivity.

Description

Investigation with the actor's nose in close contact with the recipient's anus and genitals only.

Classification

Exploration, Variant of Investigate

Contexts

Social, Sexual (see Sexual Behaviors)

Variants

Anogenital investigation may occur in four different postures:

  1. Upright. The mouse rears up on its hind legs.
  2. Oblique. The mouse has its forebody off the floor and it is sitting up, resting on its haunches.
  3. Sideways. The mouse has all four paws on the cage floor.
  4. Investigate - Stretched Attend