Mice Use Chemical Cues Such as Odors to Sense Social Hierarchy, Study Finds

Mice use chemical cues such as odors to sense social hierarchy

Researchers have shown that mice use chemical cues, including odors, to detect the social rank of an unfamiliar mouse and compare it to their own, using this information to determine their behavior.

Mice use chemical cues such as odors to sense social hierarchy, study finds

Researchers at the Francis Crick Institute have shown that mice use chemical cues, including odors, to detect the social rank of an unfamiliar mouse and compare it to their own, using this information to determine their behavior.

Silent Signals: How We Recognize Social Rank Instantly

Mice, like humans, navigate social hierarchies using subtle cues—but instead of reading facial expressions or clothing, they rely on chemical signals. A new study reveals that male mice can determine the social rank of unfamiliar opponents using airborne odors and physical scent cues.

Mice use chemical cues such as odours to sense social hierarchy

Researchers at the Francis Crick Institute have shown that mice use chemical cues, including odours, to detect the social rank of an unfamiliar mouse and compare it to their own, using this information to determine their behaviour.