Body size and agonistic experience affect dominance and mating success in male copperheads
Article Abstract:
Seven experiments were conducted to investigate the relative importance of body size and type of agonistic experience in the dominance and potential mating success of adult male copperheads, Agkistrodon contortrix (Serpentes, Viperidae). The findings confirmed the importance of body size and type of fighting experience as determinants of successful fighting and mating. A single defeat was found to have an adverse impact on subsequent agonistic and mating encounters for a prolonged period. However, a winning experience did not guarantee success in succeeding fights.
Publication Name: Animal Behaviour
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0003-3472
Year: 1997
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Determinants of mating success in male adders, Vipera berus
Article Abstract:
A study on the determinants of mating success in male adders was conducted using a sample from a population of adders in southern Sweden. Results indicate that higher male mobility, higher mate-finding ability and the ability to fight off other males account for a higher probability of mating success. Body size due to age usually affected mating success. Smaller males usually achieved mating success by finding an isolated female or visiting a female after a larger snakehas left.
Publication Name: Animal Behaviour
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0003-3472
Year: 1993
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Female mate choice of large male broad-headed skinks
Article Abstract:
An experiment exploring the mating behavior of large male broad-headed skinks, Eumeces laticeps, was conducted. Results indicate that female skinks prefer large male broad-headed skinks as opposed to smaller counterparts. This validates the theory stating a preference of female skinks for skinks with a larger body size since they have the greatest survival rate since the head is the primary defensive weapon in this species.
Publication Name: Animal Behaviour
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0003-3472
Year: 1993
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