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On the evolution of hidden leks and the implications for reproductive and habitat selection behaviours
Aggregations occur in all animal taxa, from insects to ungulates, and these aggregations can have
profound consequences for the ecology and evolution of organisms. While individuals might
have many reasons for being attracted to each other, an important link between mating strategies
and aggregations has not been adequately explored. In species with social pair bonds, infidelity
is common and results in ‘extra-pair’ copulations and paternity. The hidden lek hypothesis
suggests that aggregations of territorial males can result from female receptivity to extra-pair
copulations. We adapt four common models for the evolution of leks (aggregations of males that
females visit only for mating) to better understand the formation of hidden leks. Elaboration of
these models suggests distinct predictions that can be tested in situations where animals
aggregate in search of extra-pair copulations. Understanding the forces that shape hidden lek
formation and maintenance promises insight into habitat selection, aggregation, and reproductive
behaviours.
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