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Pair-Formation Mechanisms In Anas (Anatidae) And Related Genera, Paul A. Johnsgard

Paul Johnsgard Collection

Although the" courtship" behaviour of waterfowl has attracted widespread interest and has been the subject of several major papers (e.g. Heinroth 1911, Lorenz 1951-1953), the actual means by which pairs are formed in most species of waterfowl remains unknown. We may conclude by inference that the females of most species of ducks must actively "select" their mates, for the elaborate male displays and plumage patterns present in the group can only be reconciled in terms of sexual selection. In addition, any observer of waterfowl will soon realize that it is the males which actively " court" the females, and that …