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Biology

Extra-Pair Copulation and Genetic Monogamy in Socially Monogamous Birds

Quick fact

DNA paternity tests reveal that at least 70% of all bird species exhibit extra-pair paternity, with some species showing over 50% of offspring fathered by males other than the social partner. This challenges the classic view that socially monogamous birds are also genetically monogamous.

Why this is interesting

Think you know which birds are 'faithful'? In many species, the male nesting with the female is not the father of most of her chicks. So why does he stick around?