There is no consensus yet on the reasons why females engage in extra-pair copulations (EPCs). In some species, females have been shown to accrue some indirect benefits, but these effects are not consistent across species and studies. The sexual conflict hypothesis posits that extra-pair paternity (EPP) is the result of strong selection for male pursuit of EPC without real benefits for females. In order to test this hypothesis, we experimentally reduced wing area (reversibly tying together some primary feathers), in a group of pied flycatcher females (Ficedula hypoleuca). The manipulation increases wing loading (body mass/wing area), which is negatively associated with flying ability, and thus with the capacity to escape from unwanted copulations. We compared the levels of EPP in this experimental group with those of a group of un-manipulated females. Experimental females almost doubled the proportion of extra-pair young (EPY) with respect to control females. In addition, more males sired EPY in experimental than in control broods containing EPY. These results suggest that in our study population, EPP could be partially a product of female capacity to avoid EPCs. We also discuss the alternative hypothesis that results might be due to an eventual reduction of female attractiveness.
Keywords: extra-pair paternity; female traits; flying performance; mate choice; sexual conflict.