Courtship Display

animal behavior · attraction · survival · evolution

Dancing to Impress. Many animals perform fancy, choreographed movements to win over potential mates. Male birds like peacocks and bowerbirds do elaborate dances, and even some spiders do tiny boogie moves to show off how strong and healthy they are.

Sounds and Songs. Males often use their voices to attract females, from male frogs croaking loudly to wolves howling to whales singing complex underwater songs. The better the sound, the more impressive the male seems to potential mates.

Showing Off Strength. Some animals flex their muscles or do powerful moves to demonstrate they're strong and healthy. Male gorillas beat their chests, and male lions show off their impressive manes to prove they'd make great partners.

Beauty and Decoration. Bright colors, fancy feathers, and decorations catch a female's eye and show she's picking a healthy mate. Peacocks display their dazzling tail feathers, and male bowerbirds build colorful decorated homes to impress visiting females.

Battle Displays. Sometimes males puff up, growl, or act aggressive to show they're tough enough to protect a family. These dramatic shows let competitors know they mean business without always fighting to the death.