Presentation Details
| Female Southern Flying Squirrels Prefer Males From Different Forest Locations Katie E.Ekholm, Angela R.Freeman. Salisbury University, Salisbury, Maryland, USA |
Abstract
The ability to identify a suitable mate may be the most important aspect of reproduction for animals. Yet, we know little about how southern flying squirrel (Glaucomys volans) females choose their mates. We hypothesized that traits such as body size, anogenital distance (an indicator of androgen exposure in utero), or birthplace influence mate choice in this species. Based on a preference test in which females could approach or avoid males, we found that female investigation of males depends on both male and female anogenital distances. Females tended to show greater interest in males with high anogenital distances when their own anogenital distances were shorter. Females preferred to associate with males from different forest locations than their own birthplace. We suspect that the preference for males from different locations may be a form of inbreeding avoidance or a way to maximize genetic compatibility. These data help elucidate what variables drive female mate choice in this charismatic species.
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No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the author.
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