Where, when, and how male sharp-tailed grouse establish territories on arenas

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
The behaviour of individually marked male sharp-tailed grouse (Pedioecetes phasianellus) was observed on four arenas over two successive autumn-to-spring periods to determine the fate of established birds, and where, when, and how young males established new territories on the arenas. The lekking cohort of males frequented the arenas from September to June with peak attendance in April. This cohort suffered an average loss of 56% between spring and autumn with males occupying peripheral territories disappearing in greater proportions than those on central territories; this loss is believed to represent mortality. Surviving males moved centripetally to fill any central vacancies, leaving potential territories vacant peripherally. It was only here at the edge of the arena that young males were recorded successfully establishing territories. Most (68%) were established in autumn and early winter. Males in adult plumage (assumed to be about 18 months old) were relatively more successful (13/15) in acquiring territories between September and March than birds in immature plumage (about 6 months old) (11/23). Acquisition of a territory appeared to involve the following sequence of events: repeated use of a site, low intensity display (mainly towards more peripherally located and largely nonterritorial males), establishment of mutual recognition, full display, and defence of space against all neighbours.