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Apparent Promiscuity in the Violet-green Swallow

Frank F. Gander

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In June, 1933, Viole-green Swallows (Tachycineta thalassina lepida) we abundant in the vicinity of Laguna Hanson, Sierra Juarez, Baja California, Mexico. On the morning of the tenth, the following incident was observed. A single bird alighted upon a small pine branch on the ground, and was quickly surrounded by four others. These later arrivals engaged in a general melee of quarreling and fighting among themselves, from which the bird on the branch remained aloof. In the midst of the flurry, a sixth bird arrived, alighted upon the back of the first bird and completed the act of copulation. All six swallows then took wing and, ascending above the pines, were soon lost to sight. Literature examined gives no record of the marital relations of these birds and so implies monogamy. The above would suggest that at times Violet-green Swallows may be promiscuous in their sexual activities.

San Diego Society of Natural History, San Diego, California, April 7, 1934

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