Female frogs have a surprising way of avoiding unwanted male attention: they play dead. German researchers discovered this behavior, shedding new light on European common frogs. Contrary to previous beliefs, females in dense reproductive environments are not passive recipients of male advances.
Dr. Carolin Dittrich from the Museum of Natural History in Berlin led the study, which involved observing mating behavior in controlled settings. The results showed that many females used avoidance strategies when approached by males. These strategies included body rotation, emitting distress calls, and adopting a rigid posture similar to playing dead.
Interestingly, historical accounts dating back to the 18th century describe similar behaviors, indicating the long-standing nature of this phenomenon. The researchers propose that tonic immobility, more common in smaller and less experienced females, may be a stress response to mating encounters.
Overall, these tactics allowed numerous females to escape unwanted suitors, highlighting the active role females play in mate selection. This study challenges traditional assumptions about female behavior during frog reproduction.
Source: theguardian.com; bing.com; nbcmiami.com; theweek.com; zephr.newscientist.com;
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