Mate guarding in the swallowHirundo rustica |
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Authors: | Anders Pape Møller |
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Institution: | (1) Department of Zoology, University of Uppsala, Box 561, S-751 22 Uppsala, Sweden |
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Abstract: | Summary The importance of mate guarding by males in the monogamous swallowHirundo rustica was studied by temporarily detaining the males. Mate guarding reduced the frequency of extra-pair copulations and of sexual
chases involving female mates. Males participated in sexual chases more frequently if they had a non-fertile female. Neighbouring
males of ‘widowed’ females increased their own mate guarding presumably in response to the experimentally increased rate of
sexual chases. Neighbouring males with a fertile female increased their mate guarding more than did males with a non-fertile
female.
Addition of eggs to swallow nests in the post-fledging period of the first brood induced mate guarding by male nest owners.
These males also copulated more frequently with their mates than did control males. Neighbouring male swallows responded to
the increased mate guarding by showing sexual interest in the guarded females.
removal of eggs from swallow nests during the laying period, leaving only one egg in the nest, resulted in reduced nest attendance
by females. Male mates responded by increasing their mate guarding intensity as compared to controls, and neighbouring males
showed an increased sexual interest in these females. |
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Keywords: | |
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