Stability of reindeer harems according to male age and social rank

Abstract

Sexual selection is the evolutionary process that favours adaptations that increase mating success of individuals. It encompasses "intra-sexual competition" as well as "mate choice". During the rut, reindeer (Rangifer tarandus) form harems, i.e. a gathering of individuals where a dominant male ("the harem holder") is chasing subordinate males and herding females