Social networks research in ex situ populations: Patterns, trends, and future directions for conservation‐focused behavioral research
Social networks research using non‐human animals has grown over the past decade, utilizing a wide range of species to answer an array of pure and applied questions. Network approaches have relevance to conservation, evaluating social influences on fecundity, health, fitness and longevity. While the application of network approaches to in situ populations with conservation concern appears in published literature, the degree to which ex situ and zoo‐housed populations are the focus of “social networks for conservation research” is limited. Captive