Courtship Display

A courtship display is a series of behaviors that an animal might use to attract a mate, and occasionally to warn rivals who may intrude. In general, the males initiate the courtship displays to arouse a female's interest and to win her selection among competing males. These behaviors may include ritualized dances or vocalizations that showcase the beauty or strength of the potential mate. In birds, these courtship displays often include postures by males to expose their plumage. Fanning and shaking the tail feathers, turning them to catch the light, and strutting around the female bird are common elements of the display.