PRF/J: The Consequences of Extra-pair Fertilization for Males and Females of the Western Bluebird (Sialia mexicana)

近年来，遗传学证据表明，额外的- 成对交配在显然是一夫一妻制的鸟类中更为普遍 物种比以前想象的要多。 的成本和收益 对雄性和雌性的额外配对知之甚少 由于数据的缺乏，而且直到最近， 现有的遗传技术不足以确定 自然种群中的父权。 在这项研究中， 在西部蓝知更鸟（Sialia mexicana）的巢中， 中部沿海加州将被确定，和行为， 人口和基因数据将用于解决 额外配对的功能后果。 幼子的亲子关系 在有多只雄鸟照顾幼鸟的巢中， 决定，以及是否多余的男性是 非繁殖助手或实际上父亲的后代在巢中， 他们喂养的。 这项研究将阐明交配系统的 西部的蓝知更鸟，将有助于阐明 和成功的额外配对作为生殖替代， 严格的一夫一妻制

In recent years, genetic evidence has revealed that extra- pair mating is more widespread in apparently monogamous bird species than previously thought. The costs and benefits of extra-pair mating are poorly understood for males and females because of a paucity of data and because, until recently, the genetic techniques available were inadequate for determining paternity in natural populations. In this study, parentage of young in nests of western bluebird (Sialia mexicana) pairs in central coastal California will be determined, and behavioral, demographic and genetic data will be used to address the functional consequences of extra-pair mating. Parentage of young in nests where more than one male cares for young will be determined, as well as whether supernumerary males are nonbreeding helpers or actually father offspring in the nests at which they feed. This study will clarify the mating system of the western bluebired and will help to shed light on the extent and success of extra-pair mating as a reproductive alternative to strict monogamy.