Cooperative Breeding

Cooperative breeding is a social system in which multiple individuals, often including relatives, help raise offspring that are not solely their own. This behavior is seen in various animal species, such as birds and mammals. Instead of just the parents caring for the young, additional adults—like siblings, cousins, or even unrelated group members—assist in feeding, protecting, and teaching the young. This cooperation can enhance the survival chances of the offspring and allow the parents to have more breeding opportunities while ensuring better care for their young.