ETHOGRAM OF COURTSHIP AND MATING BEHAVIOUR OF Sitana cf. ponticeriana (REPTILIA: DRACONINAE: AGAMIDAE) IN INDIA

Abstract

The current study describes and interprets the courtship behaviour exhibited by Sitana cf. ponticeriana. An ethogram comprised of 20 behavioural acts was compiled. Though complex communications were lacking in Sitana cf. ponticeriana, other acts were by and large similar (and perhaps evolutionarily homologous) to other agamids. The courtship behaviour was divided into three distinct patterns – orientation, persuasion and copulation. Gular flap extensions by the males of Sitana cf. ponticeriana was a peculiar display but not unique to this species. Head bobbing, which is a common feature to many agamids, was rare and functioned to enhance the visual acuity rather than to serve as a social signal. Neck grip was also a very short event performed rapidly by the male to subdue the female. Rest events of the courtship were more or less similar to other types of lizards. Tail twitching and tail twisting seemed to express high levels of arousal rather than ritualized social signals.