Lekmating

Lekmating, also known as lekking, is a reproductive behavior observed in certain animal species, primarily among insects, birds, and some mammals. In lekking systems, males gather in specific areas called leks to display and compete for the attention of visiting females. These display sites serve as focal points for sexual selection, with males often engaging in elaborate visual, auditory, or chemical displays to attract females.

The lekking process involves males establishing specific territories within the lek to showcase their traits, such as bright plumage, elaborate courtship dances, or loud calls. Females visit these leks to evaluate and choose mates based on the display intensity, vigor, or particular characteristics indicating genetic fitness. Once a female selects a preferred male, copulation occurs, often followed by the female establishing a territory for nesting or raising offspring independently.

Lekking is considered a form of intense sexual selection, where the success of males depends not only on their traits but also on their position within the lek and their ability to outperform rivals. This system is advantageous in environments where female choice is critical for offspring quality, and where males cannot secure resources or territory to attract mates directly.

Examples of species exhibiting lekking behavior include grouse, sage grouse, some species of manakins, and certain insects like dance flies. Researchers study lekking to understand sexual selection mechanisms and the evolution of elaborate courtship behaviors. The behavior highlights the importance of display and competition in reproductive success, shaping the diversity of mating systems observed across species.