Call rate, fundamental frequency, and syntax determine male-call attractiveness in blue petrels Halobaena caerulea

In blue petrels (Halobaena caerulea), females are supposed to be particularly choosy and mate choice can take a couple of years. these lifelong monogamous seabirds, choosing good is crucial has strong influence on their fitness. Due nocturnal habits, the absence sexual dimorphism, physical barrier between males calling from burrow flying above colony, vocal signals seem one main channels for communicate with potential mates. previous study, we investigated whether acoustic parameters male calls carry information about morphological characteristics that might indicators males’ qualities. Here, experimentally test linked actually attractive females. To do so, played back modified in colony Kerguelen archipelago. We found were more attracted by high-pitched calls, broadcasted at high call rate. Previous studies showed relationship pitch bill depth length. filter-feeding birds, such as petrels, morphology influences feeding efficiency. A rate an indicator motivation makes caller easier locate mates predators hubbub colony. thus hypothesized producing frequent appeared preferable conspicuous signaling although it may increase predation risks. Mate selection process largely unknown burrowing due cryptic life examined implication petrel Halobaena caerulea. used experimental setting based two-choice show attracting As expected, broadcasting Despite apparent stereotypy transmit pieces females’ preference. calls. This first evidence petrels.