Extra pair copulation ECP’s

New discovery thanks to DNA, shows that in all breeding types we have raising young of others in same species. In many monogamous birds the likely hood is 10-25% raising young that is not their own can be up to 80%. Benefits to males is increased fitness by having more young, insurance against mate infertility and possible future mate acquisition. Costs, sperm depletion, increased rick of cuckoldry, less paternal care, and higher chances of divorce. Benefits to females in insurance against mate infertility, genetically diverse young, improved genetic diversity and access to best resources. Costs, mate retaliation, risk of injury, harassment. Paternal care declines with increased ability for EPC’s.