Why do many female artiodactyls leave their groups shortly before giving birth?

Females of normally gregarious artiodactyl species often become solitary a few days before giving birth to ensure the safety of their offspring. By withdrawing from the herd, they can seek out secluded areas—such as patches of dense bush, high grass, or burrows—that provide a place to retreat if they or their young are endangered by predators.1

This behavior is a protective strategy, as the newborn is often vulnerable. For example, the female chital remains near dense vegetation for cover, while the female collared peccary withdraws to a burrow to give birth.1