Courtship Behaviour

• What does courtship behaviour mean?

  The term given to different behaviours that animals demonstrate to attract a mate. Each species demonstrates its own unique behaviour and this is essential for successful mating.
• What is a species?

  A species is a group of similar organisms that can breed to make fertile offspring. Species must reproduce and pass on advantageous alleles, for the survival of their species.
• How do animals synchronise mating behaviour to increase the likelihood of successful mating?

  Animals will only display courtship behaviours when they are sexually mature and fertile. This helps to synchronise mating behaviour so that the animals are more likely to mate when the female is releasing eggs. Courtship behaviour also increases the likelihood of successful mating, as it enables individuals to recognise members of the same species and opposite sex.
• How can courtship behaviour result in increased survival of offspring?

  • Courtship rituals can help animals to form pair bonds
  • So they are more likely to stay together and both raise the offspring
  • It also allows females to select a strong and healthy mate to reproduce with and therefore ensures more successful alleles are passed on.
• Give examples of the different types of courtship rituals.

  Courtship behaviours can range from a particular sequence of dance moves, certain sounds, the release of pheromones or displays of feathers.
• What does courtship behaviour ensure?

  Successful mating