New Article: Female Gouldian Finches “Cheat” to Acquire Better Genes

[findi]

Hi All,

Please check out: Gouldian Finch Infidelity

Recent studies of the Gouldian Finch (Erythrura gouldiae), an endangered species and popular pet, have revealed that females readily copulate with males other than their mates in order to ensure that the young acquire the best possible genes. Read article here:
Gouldian Finch Infidelity - Cheating to Acquire Better Genes | That Bird Blog

Comments and questions appreciated,

Thanks, Frank
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Bio: That Pet Place welcomes Zoologist Frank Indiviglio to That Avian Blog | That Bird Blog

 

[Shawchert]

well that sure is interesting, i wonder what they do to "go through great lengths" to keep their mates from seeing, and how they actually choose the sperm etc. Hmmm quite mind boggling but cool to know and thos e are some very pretty birds!!

 

[findi]

well that sure is interesting, i wonder what they do to "go through great lengths" to keep their mates from seeing, and how they actually choose the sperm etc. Hmmm quite mind boggling but cool to know and thos e are some very pretty birds!!

Hi, thanks,

The sperm competition phenomenon is really quite amazing; seeing it in snakes, inverts and others as well, but details as to mechanics not well known. "Sneaking" around is behavioral, and happens in many other bird species as well - "affairs" are conducted out of the mate's sight (I won;t draw human parallels, but...!). Best, Frank

 

[mysteryfoxes]

What an interesting article!

 

[findi]

What an interesting article!

Hi,
Thanks very much! Something new is always coming to light, even with "well-known" species. Perhaps you'll enjoy this one as well The Brilliant Gouldian Finch - Care Tips and Newly Discovered Facts | That Bird Blog

Best, Frank

 

[MikeyTN]

Thanks Frank for another great article!!! A lot of animals do that, even people....

 

[findi]

Indeed! Best, Frank

 

[roxynoodle]

Certainly very interesting both from a scientific view and a behavioral/intelligence one.