Question

On the Scottish Island of Rum male deer (stags) have larger antlers. This males use these antlers to

Answer 1

Male deer have antlers to attract mates, intimidate rivals, and establish territory.

Step-by-step explanation:

In the animal kingdom, many species exhibit sexual dimorphism, where males and females have distinct differences. One such difference can be the presence of antlers, which are typically found in male deer, such as stags. Antlers serve multiple purposes for male deer, including:

1. Mate attraction: Male deer use their antlers to attract mates by demonstrating their size, strength, and dominance. The larger and more impressive the antlers, the more likely they are to win mating opportunities.
2. Intimidation and defense: Antlers can be used as weapons for fighting off rival males during the mating season. The size and strength of antlers give stags an advantage in competition for mates.
3. Display: Antlers can also be used for visual displays, signaling dominance and establishing territory boundaries.

It's important to note that not all male species have antlers, and the reasons for their presence can vary depending on the ecological and evolutionary pressures that each species faces. In the case of male deer, antlers have evolved as a result of sexual selection pressures.