Abstract
One of the most interesting aspects of the mating system of pied flycatchers is the regular occurrence of polygyny. Here we present data on the reproductive success of polygynously paired pied flycatcher males compared to monogamous males based on paternity analyses through DNA fingerprinting. Males paired with two females suffered a higher loss in reproductive output per female compared to monogamous males due to (1) a greater proportion of unhatched eggs in their broods, (2) greater nestling mortality and (3) a greater probability of being cuckolded. Nevertheless, the number of fledglings was significantly greater for polygynous males. Based on the number of nestlings that returned for subsequent breeding seasons, however, the reproductive success of monogamous and polygynous males did not differ significantly. These data raise the question as to why males attempt polygyny.
Similar content being viewed by others
Author information
Authors and Affiliations
Additional information
Received: 16 August 1999 / Received in revised form: 15 March 2000 / Accepted: 18 March 2000
Rights and permissions
About this article
Cite this article
Lubjuhn, T., Winkel, W., Epplen, J. et al. Reproductive success of monogamous and polygynous pied flycatchers (Ficedula hypoleuca). Behav Ecol Sociobiol 48, 12–17 (2000). https://doi.org/10.1007/s002650000208
Issue Date:
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s002650000208