Northern Cardinal sexes defend nests equally.: An article from: Wilson Bulletin

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From the author: We exposed nesting Northern Cardinals (C. cardinalis) to models of three predators of cardinal eggs or nestlings (black rat snake [Elaphe obsoleta], Blue Jay [Cyanocitta cristata], and eastern chipmunk [Tamias striatus]). We attempted to determine relative contributions to nest defense by males and females during the mid-nestling stage of the nesting cycle. For all defense variables monitored, mean responses did not differ between the sexes, although females spent more time in attendance at the nest. Latency to response to the models was strongly correlated between mates, but responses by mates appeared to be independent at the nest. There was little evidence for stimulus-specific defense. Parent bird responses to the predator models and to a mounted Mourning Dove (Zenaida macroura, a "non-threat") likewise did not differ. Active defense of nests may be of limited importance to reproductive success in this cardinal population.

Citation Details
Title: Northern Cardinal sexes defend nests equally.
Author: Paul M. Nealen
Publication:Wilson Bulletin (Refereed)
Date: June 1, 1997
Publisher: Wilson Ornithological Society
Volume: v109 Issue: n2 Page: p269(10)

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