FINCHforum

Personally, I'm not surprised by the outcome of this study. If given the choice to freely choose mates, you will mostly (if not always) get better breeding results.

Your thoughts?

http://www.theguardian.com/science/grrl ... ce-of-love

Rox

Interesting article Roxanne, but I think nothing that we didn't already Instinctively know, if we really think about it. It only makes sense doesn't it, even without all the graphs and percenrages etc. Natural selection.

I always allow my birds to choose their own mates whenever possible. Obviously, if there are only two of a particular species, it's not really an option, but whenever it is possible.

Do birds and other animals actually fall in love? I'm not sure if I would put an emotional human twist to it. However, I do know, that they do form very strong bonds in some cases. So why not take it a step further, and assume, that when there is a strong natural bond, it will also translate into better breeding and chick rearing practices (?)

lovezebs

Do birds and other animals actually fall in love? I'm not sure if I would put an emotional human twist to it. However, I do know, that they do form very strong bonds in some cases. So why not take it a step further, and assume, that when there is a strong natural bond, it will also translate into better breeding and chick rearing practices (?)

Elana, I agree calling it 'love' is a bit much, but getting better breeding/chick rearing practices from a natural bond just makes more sense. More compatible birds will always equal better breeding results.