In house sparrows (Passer domesticus) it is generally found that both males and females care for the eggs and young. However, some male house sparrows do not provide parental care. In addition, it is known that young that receive parental care from both the male and female are more likely to survive to fledging (leaving the nest). Which of the following activities by males that do NOT provide parental care would represent the most beneficial trade-off for the reduced survival of their offspring?
A) attacking the nests of neighboring males
B) mating with additional females and fathering more eggs
C) eating to build up energy stores for migration
D) grooming to eliminate parasites from their feathers

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Mating with additional females and fathering more eggs would represent the most beneficial trade-off for males that do not provide parental care because it increases their overall reproductive success, even if it comes at the cost of reduced survival for each individual offspring. Attacking neighboring nests, eating to build up energy stores for migration, and grooming to eliminate parasites would not increase their reproductive success in the same way.

In House Sparrows (Passer Domesticus) It Is Generally Found That