What primary evolutionary function is served by the female Western Tanager's less conspicuous, drab camouflage coloration?

Answer

Prioritizing nest safety by reducing her conspicuousness to predators while incubating eggs or brooding young

The drab, yellowish-green plumage of the female Western Tanager serves a critical function related to reproductive success and survival of offspring. This lack of vibrant color acts as camouflage, making the female less visible against the nest environment. This reduction in conspicuousness is a direct evolutionary adaptation designed to minimize the risk of attracting predators to the location where eggs are being incubated or where young chicks are being sheltered and brooded. Conversely, the male's bright colors evolved for sexual signaling, illustrating that different selective pressures drive the plumage development in each sex.

What primary evolutionary function is served by the female Western Tanager's less conspicuous, drab camouflage coloration?

Related Questions

To which family does DNA evidence definitively place the genus Piranga, including the Western Tanager?Which relative species within the Piranga genus is noted for being largely non-migratory, remaining in the southwestern US and Mexico year-round?What specific combination describes the male Western Tanager's striking fresh spring plumage?What geological feature or environmental boundary reinforces the Western Tanager's distinct western lineage, as it is generally absent as a consistent breeder east of this demarcation?After which developmental event does the Western Tanager acquire its distinct, bright adult male plumage?What were the primary morphological and behavioral characteristics used historically to group the Western Tanager with South American true tanagers?How is the female Western Tanager generally described in terms of coloration when contrasted with the male's vibrant display?To which lower-elevation regions does the entire population of Western Tanagers migrate to escape harsh northern winters?What primary evolutionary function is served by the female Western Tanager's less conspicuous, drab camouflage coloration?What specific type of forest habitat, often found at high elevations, does the Western Tanager utilize for breeding across the western mountains?
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