Animal social structures refer to the organized patterns of relationships and interactions among individuals within a species. These structures can vary widely, from solitary animals like tigers to highly social species like ants and elephants. Social structures often influence behaviors such as mating, foraging, and protection from predators. In many species, social hierarchies exist, where individuals have different ranks or roles. For example, in a wolf pack, there is typically an alpha pair that leads the group. These social dynamics help maintain order and enhance survival, allowing animals to work together for common goals like hunting or raising young.