[1][3] In some species, self-scratching of the flank gland, typically with a hind foot, causes secretion of an oily substance that leaves the surrounding hair visibly matted and emits a chemical odor.
[2] These chemicals vary in composition within the same species as well as within an individual as it progresses through sexual maturity.
[4] Scent marking via secretions of the flank gland has been observed: for example, some male microtene rodents will perform “drum-marking,” in which they repeatedly scratch their flank gland with their foot and proceed to stomp the ground several times.
[2] There is also experimental evidence of male golden hamsters and of lab rats fighting, after which the victor will scent-mark more than the submitter: this suggests it is used by dominant individuals to establish territory.
[8][9] Additionally, female golden hamsters show a sexual preference towards familiar non-kin odors.