Courtship

In the avian world, female birds hold the power of mate selection. Consequently, males display their most colorful feathers and melodious songs. But it doesn’t stop there; some males also attempt to win female favor through daring aerial acrobatics. Additionally, some males come bearing gifts, presenting plump prey to their prospective mates. Birds typically nest before courtship: males take charge of nest-building, while females select the most beautiful abode for themselves.

Why all the effort?

A tidy nest ensures the safety of offspring, and presenting food to birds signifies care. But why would a female peafowl choose the most stunningly plumed male? There’s a reason: long feathers and vibrant colors represent healthy dietary habits, indicating that the male can secure food sources. Hence, peacocks spread their wings and meticulously display themselves.

Rivals and territory disputes

The courtship process often involves battles. Sometimes males fight for the best nesting sites, while other times they fight for mates. The form of combat depends on how they defend their territories. Songbirds typically sing loudly, causing intruders to flee; whereas hawks or male grouse resort to physical combat. Marsh warblers decide victories through feigned combat: males select a battleground and compete before females, akin to an arena.

Harmonious head contact

Although two pigeons have chosen each other as mates, courtship isn’t over yet. The female slowly allows the male to approach her, sometimes engaging in mutual aerial pursuits, or moving their heads and wings in unison. Thus, mates adapt to each other, fostering emotional warmth. Some birds even engage in bill-touching, akin to kissing. They spend much time courting, yet mating typically takes only a few seconds. The male climbs onto the female’s back, and their cloacae make contact. This allows the male’s semen to enter the female’s oviduct, fertilizing the eggs.

When a Rosy-faced Lovebird nibbles on its mate’s beak, it looks incredibly gentle. Beak-to-beak contact and head touching can strengthen the bond between this couple.