Display (zoology) facts for kids

The Killdeer bird shows off its feathers during mating season.

Red Deer grow and lose their antlers every year. These are used for display.

Great Crested Grebes perform a beautiful dance to find a mate.

Display is a special kind of animal behavior. It's how animals show off to others. This behavior helps them survive and keep their species going in many ways.

One main reason animals display is for courtship. This means finding a mate. Often, the male animal has a bright color, a unique shape, or a large size. These features help him attract a female. After the mating season, many males might change their look to blend in better with their surroundings.

Another reason for display is to show strength. Animals like deer or elephant seals might have big horns or teeth. They show these off to other males. This helps them avoid real fights. Younger or weaker males often leave when they see a stronger male's display. This way, they don't get hurt. Peacocks, deer, antelope, and elephant seals are good examples of animals that do this.

Animals also display to protect their territory. This means they show others that a certain area belongs to them. This helps them keep enough food and space for their family or group.

What is Animal Display?

Animal display is a way for animals to communicate without words. They use their bodies, sounds, or even smells to send messages. These messages are often about finding a mate, showing strength, or protecting their home.

Finding a Mate: Courtship Displays

Many animals perform special dances or show off their features to attract a partner. This is called a courtship display.

• Male birds often have bright feathers or sing loud songs.
• Some animals do fancy dances.
• These displays tell a potential mate that they are strong and healthy.
• The female chooses the best male based on his display.

Showing Strength: Armament Displays

Some animals have "weapons" like horns, antlers, or large teeth. They use these in displays to show how strong they are.

• Males might stand tall or make loud noises.
• They often face each other to show off their size.
• This helps them decide who is stronger without a real fight.
• The weaker animal usually backs down, avoiding injury.

Protecting Your Space: Territorial Displays

Animals need space for food, shelter, and raising their young. They use displays to tell other animals to stay away from their territory.

• A bird might sing loudly from a tree branch.
• A wolf might mark its area with scent.
• These displays warn intruders that the space is taken.
• It helps prevent fights over resources.

Images for kids

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  Many male birds have brightly colored plumage for display. This feather is from a male Indian peafowl Pavo cristatus.

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  Male mountain gorilla