Extra-pair copulations in Black Brant
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Abstract
Monogamy is the primary mating system among waterfowl, but extra-pair copulations (EPCs) have been documented in at least 39 species (McKinney et al. 1983). Extra-pair copulations occur in most Holarctic species of dabbling ducks (Anas spp.), but have been recorded in only three species of geese: Lesser Snow Geese, Chen caerulescens caerulescens (Mineau and Cooke 1979a), Ross’ Geese, C. rossii (J. Ryder in McKinney et al. 1984), and Greater White-fronted Geese, Anser albifrons frontalis (C.R. Ely, pers. comm.).
In colonial Lesser Snow Geese, the close proximity of nesting conspecifics may enable males to pursue EPCs as a secondary reproductive strategy (Mineau and Cooke, 1979a, 1979b). Copulatory behavior of other geese has not been studied in sufficient detail to permit comparison with Lesser Sone Geese. Here we report on timing and rates of pair copulations (PCs) and EPCs, and describe behaviors associated with EPCs in colonially nesting Black Brant (Branta bernicla nigricans).
| Publication type | Article |
|---|---|
| Publication Subtype | Journal Article |
| Title | Extra-pair copulations in Black Brant |
| Series title | The Condor |
| DOI | 10.2307/1368407 |
| Volume | 92 |
| Issue | 1 |
| Year Published | 1990 |
| Language | English |
| Publisher | Cooper Ornithological Society |
| Contributing office(s) | Alaska Science Center |
| Description | 3 p. |
| First page | 242 |
| Last page | 244 |
| Google Analytic Metrics | Metrics page |