Walnut, a red deer born on the island of Rum in Scotland in 1995, lived a long and remarkable life. Researchers on the island diligently recorded her birth and tracked her throughout her years. Walnut raised 14 offspring, an impressive feat for a hind. In her later years, she spent most of her time away from the herd, often seen with another female named Vanity. After Walnut passed away at the age of 21, Vanity spent most of her time alone and eventually passed away at the age of 23.
As red deer age, they tend to have fewer social connections. This phenomenon was observed by ecologist Gregory Albery during his studies on Rum. Older deer tend to associate with fewer others, and their home ranges decrease in size as they age. This change in behavior may be due to various factors, including a decline in physical health and a higher risk of parasitic infections.
Similar patterns have been observed in Soay sheep on the nearby island of Hirta. Older sheep also reduce the size of their social networks and may limit their contacts to avoid potential health risks. Studies have shown that older sheep with lower levels of antibodies to resist parasitic infections have a higher risk of mortality.
On the island of Cayo Santiago, researchers have studied rhesus macaques and observed similar trends in aging animals. Older macaques groom and are groomed as often as younger animals but become more selective in their social interactions. Maintaining strong social connections can be beneficial for survival, especially after natural disasters like Hurricane Maria.
The studies on aging animals provide valuable insights into how social networks change with age and the potential impact on health and survival. While the findings may not directly translate to human behavior, they offer important considerations for understanding the complexities of aging and social relationships. As we age, we may naturally gravitate towards closer relationships and smaller social circles for comfort and support.
