Musth

Sekretausscheidung zur Musth

2005-tusker-musth-crop

Tusker in Musth

Thai bull elephant in musth

Action In Musth (139556467)

Two bulls matching testosterone levels.

Musth is a periodic condition in bull elephants characterized by highly aggressive behavior and accompanied by a large rise in reproductive hormones. Testosterone levels in an elephant in musth can be as much as 60 times greater than in the same elephant at other times. Although it has often been speculated that musth is linked to the mating season, it does not occur only at a specific time of year. Musth can last from a few days to several months.

Symptoms and Behaviors

Elephants in musth exhibit several noticeable symptoms. One of the primary signs is the secretion of a thick, tar-like substance called temporin from the temporal glands on the sides of the head. Additionally, musth is often accompanied by the constant dribbling of urine. The behavior of an elephant in musth can be unpredictable, but it typically includes aggression towards other elephants and animals, increased physical activity, and loud vocalizations. These behaviors are thought to serve as signals to females of the elephant's fitness as a mate and to intimidate rival males.

Causes

The exact causes of musth are not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to natural cycles of hormones within the elephant's body, particularly testosterone. Environmental factors, such as availability of food and water, and social dynamics within the elephant group, may also influence the timing and duration of musth.

Management

Managing elephants in musth, especially those in captivity, poses significant challenges due to their increased aggression and strength. Handlers may use various strategies to manage elephants during this time, including increased physical barriers, use of sedatives, or isolation from other elephants to prevent fights. In the wild, elephants in musth often isolate themselves or are avoided by other elephants.

Impact on Conservation

Understanding musth is important for elephant conservation efforts, particularly in terms of breeding programs and managing elephant populations in the wild. Recognizing the signs of musth can help in the timing of breeding efforts and in minimizing conflicts between humans and elephants, especially in areas where elephants are in close proximity to human settlements.

Research

Ongoing research into musth aims to better understand its causes, the role it plays in elephant society, and how it affects the health and behavior of elephants. Studies on musth also contribute to broader understanding of animal behavior, hormonal cycles, and the management of large mammals in both wild and captive environments.