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Are ducks impressed by drakes' display?

Author

Listed:
  • Kevin G. McCracken

    (University of Alaska Fairbanks
    University of Alaska Museum)

  • Robert E. Wilson

    (University of Alaska Fairbanks)

  • Pamela J. McCracken

    (University of Alaska Museum)

  • Kevin P. Johnson

    (Illinois Natural History Survey)

Abstract

Surprisingly few birds have penises, but among those that do, the Argentine lake duck (Oxyura vittata) tops the bill — the penis of this small stifftail duck from South America is shaped like a corkscrew and, at almost half a metre long, is the largest of any bird measured so far. Factors responsible for the evolution of this remarkable organ could include runaway selection, whereby drakes with longer penises gain dominance and copulate with more females, or preference by females for drakes with longer and more decorated penises.

Suggested Citation

  • Kevin G. McCracken & Robert E. Wilson & Pamela J. McCracken & Kevin P. Johnson, 2001. "Are ducks impressed by drakes' display?," Nature, Nature, vol. 413(6852), pages 128-128, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:nature:v:413:y:2001:i:6852:d:10.1038_35093160
    DOI: 10.1038/35093160
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