The mating strategies of eastern screech-owls: A genetic analysis

Abstract

We used genetic analysis to examine the mating strategies of male and female Eastern Screech-Owls (Otus asio) in central Kentucky. DNA fingerprinting revealed no evidence of extra-pair fertilizations in 23 broods (80 nestlings). Such results suggest that pursuit of extra-pair copulations by male and female screech-owls may be costly. One possible cost for females is the risk of losing the nest site. Alternatively, pursuit of extra-pair matings by females might be energetically expensive, thereby conflicting with egg production. Male screech-owls provide food for their mate (and young) during much of the breeding season and such feeding probably affects reproductive success. Males pursuing EPCs might have less time for foraging and, as a result, reduced reproductive success.