Abstract
Abstract Adults of the polyandrous Northern Jacana (Jacana spinosa) defend their offspring against avian territorial intruders that are potential offspring predators. I investigated this defensive behavior in Costa Rica during 1980 and 1981. Jacanas attacked 15 species; most attacks were against Purple Gallinules (Porphyrula martinica), which are known predators of jacana eggs and offspring. Three factors influenced the probability of attacks: (1) spatial proximity of intruders to jacana offspring, (2) species identity of intruders, and (3) stage of breeding (jacanas were most responsive to intruders when young offspring were present). Attacks prevented intruders from reaching jacana offspring, and limited evidence suggests that attacks also reduced the density of intruders near jacana nests. The female's role in offspring defense was substantial. Females participated in the defense of eggs and small young at levels comparable to those of males. This participation included: (1) joining ongoing attacks when their mates solicited aid, (2) continuing attacks while their mates led offspring away from intruders, and (3) launching attacks in the absence of their mates, especially during incubation.
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