The development of ritualized displays in Junglefowl

Abstract

The courtship of the adult male Junglefowl is characterized by the performance of several intricate and highly stereotyped display activities, specific to the species. When waltzing , for example, the male sidles toward the female with the primary feathers of the outer wing fanned downward toward the ground. As the male proceeds to circle the female, the outer foot scrapes through the extended feathers. The sudden approach of the male and the sharp rasp of foot against feathers function as signals which induce the female to crouch, a movement to which the male may respond by mounting and copulation.