By Jess Johnsrud, photo from Wikipedia
I was at the store shortly after the beginning of the new year and was reminded that Valentine’s Day is coming up in a few weeks. The shelves of red and pink packages of candies, cards, and other trinkets were brightly displayed near the entrance. I know flowers and chocolates can woo some humans, but I find animal courtship more interesting.
Some animals attract their mates through feats of strength. Gray tree frogs can be territorial during the mating season and put on quite a show. Males sing to attract females, but also to challenge other nearby males. Calls can become aggressive leading to the males fighting by wrestling, kicking, and even headbutting until there is a clear victor.
Male snapping turtles also show off brute strength in order to attract a mate. Males will bang into one another and tightly grip each other belly to belly (plastron to plastron). They proceed to roll over and over in the water until one gives up and lets go. If you’ve ever seen this in person, it is quite a spectacle!
Other animals go about courting a mate in a gentler manner. Cedar Waxwing pairs will pass small gifts of berries, seeds or bugs back and forth to strengthen their bond. This is usually initiated by the male and a bit of a dance is also included. When the female receives the gift, she will hop away and then back toward her suitor, offering the gift back. He will take the gift and do the same. Bowing and synchronized head turns can also be involved in their courtship dance.
Some males in the animal world put on a dramatic display in hopes of attracting the attention of as many females as possible. The American Woodcock is probably the best example I can think of in Wisconsin. The male waits until the light is just right, preferring the moody light of dusk and dawn. He takes the stage in a small clearing near the edge of a wooded wetland and begins with a loud, buzzy, “peent” call. He repeats this several times, then suddenly launches in the air, spirally higher and higher into the sky as the air winnows through his wings, making a whistling sound. Then he will twirl and tumble downward, landing in the same spot on the ground. This sky dance is amazing to watch and can be observed in late spring.
Animal courtship is a fascinating topic and there are so many unique behaviors. As spring approaches, watch the wildlife in your backyard or local green spaces and you may see something interesting.