Abstract

Parental care is a cornerstone of reproductive success in small mammals, shaped by evolutionary pressures and ecological constraints. This paper synthesizes ethological research on parental care strategies across small mammals, examining maternal, paternal, and biparental care through the lenses of proximate mechanisms, evolutionary drivers, and ecological influences. By integrating genetic, hormonal, and behavioral studies, we explore how species such as rodents, primates, and marsupials adapt their caregiving to optimize offspring survival. Case studies highlight the roles of monogamy, environmental harshness, and social structure in shaping care behaviors. The review concludes with conservation implications and future research directions, emphasizing the need to address anthropogenic threats and leverage technological advances in ethology.