Color Morph Variation in Two Brood Parasites: Common Cuckoo and Lesser Cuckoo

• DOI: 10.2326/osj.15.109
• Publication Date: 2016-08-01T07:34:37Z
• Authors: Hee-Jin Noh; Jin-Won Lee; Jeong-Chil Yoo
• Keywords: Cuckoo; Variation (astronomy)

Variation in plumage color the family Cuculidae has become an interesting subject for model systems study of avian evolution. It is notable that certain parasitic species, such as Common Cuckoo Cuculus canorus and Lesser C. poliocephalus, it only females exhibit polymorphism, with either gray or rufous morphs. However, a general lack systematic quantitative data on morphs means underlying mechanism morph variation remains unclear. Our studies wild-captured male female cuckoos (both above species) have shown their vary not between sexes, but also within sexes. In addition, extent differs two species. Great variations are observed Cuckoos from to various kinds intermediate forms, whereas common cuckoos. results show range much greater than previously thought. Therefore, future should first explore proximate maturation, pattern individual development effect genetic/environmental factors, order better understand adaptive significance