White Flank Spots Signal Feeding Dominance in Female Diamond Firetails, Stagonopleura guttata

• DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0310.2011.01986.x
• Publication Date: 2011-11-21T05:13:14Z
• Authors: Clare J. Crowhurst; Valeria Zanollo; Matteo Griggio; Jeremy Robertson; Sonia Kleindorfer
• Keywords: Plumage; Spots; Finch; Dominance (genetics); Black spot; Agonistic behaviour

Abstract Plumage colour can be used as an honest signal to convey health and status, which has traditionally been examined in the sexual selection context of choosy females elaborate males. We use a model avian system study role plumage coloration social such inter‐ intrasexual competition over food resources. The diamond firetail ( Stagonopleura guttata ) is endemic Australian finch: have more white flank spots than males, spot number was correlated with cell‐mediated immune response females. two experimental designs test for feeding dominance discrimination group‐living bird. results from two‐choice trials single‐arena showed that female ornamentation consistently important contests, males responded number. Females higher fed first, and/or Also, preferred feed next birds low number, but no preference few or many spots. Finally, latency predicted by number: both had longer if focal birds. conclude female, not male, competition. This one very studies show same ornament different function between sexes status. Moreover, this shows dominance.