The Mating Game

Above: Female Pheasant

Above: Demoiselle Dragonfly

Above: The Mating Game

Sussex Life

In the animal world things are rather different. It’s all about strength and showmanship, with the males of the species demonstrating in a variety of ways why he is the best choice as a mate. In the natural world it’s survival of the fittest and any female worth her salt will be looking for a mate who can demonstrate that his genes should be passed on tothe next generation.

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Male frogs and toads show affection by gripping females during mating. Romance may not be high on their list but once toads reach their breeding grounds their passion knows few limits. As with frogs, the mating process entails the male gripping the females extremely tightly. Frequently, one female is embraced by a large number of males and may even be drowned or crushed to death in consequence.

Striking territorial displays to impress the ladies are a speciality of the ‘wild’ population of pheasant who are usually to be found in deciduous woodland, although regular Sussex Life readers Dodo and Harry Treadwell of Southwick reported a sighting of one in their garden last month! (By Mike Wilkes / naturepl.com)

The male beautiful demoiselle dragonfly dances to attract a mate. This exotic looking and aptly named dragonfly is the only species found in Sussex with wholly coloured wings and its dancing, butterfly like flight over fastflowing streams is a distinctive feature. Look for them in late May through to early September in areas near fast flowing water with a stony bottom and abundant bank side vegetation. (By Colin Varndell)

Click HERE to read the full article in the Sussex Life archives

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