Birds use courtship behaviors to attract a mate, which improves their reproductive success. Which courtship behavior also improves their chances of survival?(1 point)

Responses

Male birds with bright colors have to preen frequently in order to maintain their feathers and keep pests away so they can attract mates.
Male birds with bright colors have to preen frequently in order to maintain their feathers and keep pests away so they can attract mates.

Male mockingbirds can sing 200 different songs, mocking sounds around them in order to attract females and defend their territory.
Male mockingbirds can sing 200 different songs, mocking sounds around them in order to attract females and defend their territory.

Male sage grouse, normally camouflaged by their dull coloring, dance and call out in the open to attract nearby females.
Male sage grouse, normally camouflaged by their dull coloring, dance and call out in the open to attract nearby females.

Male golden eagles dive at nearly 200 miles per hour and catch sticks in midair as an elaborate courtship and territorial display.

Male sage grouse, normally camouflaged by their dull coloring, dance and call out in the open to attract nearby females.

Male mockingbirds can sing 200 different songs, mocking sounds around them in order to attract females and defend their territory.

The correct answer is: Male mockingbirds can sing 200 different songs, mocking sounds around them in order to attract females and defend their territory.

To determine which courtship behavior also improves birds' chances of survival, we can analyze the different courtship behaviors mentioned and assess their potential benefits in terms of both reproductive success and survival.

1. Male birds with bright colors have to preen frequently in order to maintain their feathers and keep pests away so they can attract mates. While the bright colors may attract potential mates, the act of preening does not directly contribute to their chances of survival.

2. Male mockingbirds can sing 200 different songs, mocking sounds around them in order to attract females and defend their territory. This behavior not only helps them attract mates but also serves as a territorial defense mechanism. By mocking sounds in their environment, male mockingbirds can establish their dominance and deter potential competitors, thus improving their chances of survival.

3. Male sage grouse, normally camouflaged by their dull coloring, dance and call out in the open to attract nearby females. Although the dance and calls may help them attract mates, it also exposes them to potential predators due to their lack of camouflage. This behavior does not directly enhance their chances of survival.

4. Male golden eagles dive at nearly 200 miles per hour and catch sticks in midair as an elaborate courtship and territorial display. While this behavior may impress potential mates and establish territorial dominance, the risk associated with diving at such high speeds and catching sticks in midair could potentially endanger the male golden eagles' survival.

Therefore, the courtship behavior of male mockingbirds singing 200 different songs to attract females and defend their territory is the behavior that also improves their chances of survival.