LEKKING BEHAVIOUR

The word lek is a Swedish word describing an area or location where “matrimonial events” of animals take place. This is a place where two or more males gather to display for females, hoping to share their genes. Many species of animals, from insects to birds, display lek behaviors.

An “Exploded” Display

The Bare-Necked Umbrellabird lek area has been described as an “exploded” lek due to the distances between the display areas. While some species gather in tight groups during the lek process, male Bare-Necked Umbrellabirds set up favorite lek perching areas 20 to 75 meters apart. The males do, however, keep a close eye on each other just in case a female happens by. (See About Males for a more detailed description of male lek behaviors.)

Environmental Vulnerability

Climate change will no doubt have a strong effect on many species in the coming years, with the Umbrellabird particularly vulnerable due to its critically low numbers and sparse distribution, even within suitable habitats.

The Threat of Extinction

Like so many species, the Bare-Necked Umbrellabird is in serious danger of extinction due to loss of habitat caused by deforestation to make way for banana plantations and cattle farming.