Moult speed predicts pairing success in male harlequin ducks

The influence of timing and speed of molting in male harlequin ducks, Histrionicus histrionicus, on mating success is investigated. The speed of molting is correlated to the probability of finding a mate while the timing of molting has no effect on pairing success. Further, the speed of molting was found to be correlated with the body condition of males with conditioned males having a faster molting time.