MadSci Network: Zoology |
Hello Blair, Roosters and hens mate in a somewhat different way than mammals. Birds have a part that is called the cloaca. The cloaca is a structure that accepts excretory products from the intestines and the urinary systems. The cloaca also accepts products from the reproductive systems. So, basically what occurs in birds, is that there must be cloacal contact between the rooster and the hen. Before this can occur, the rooster and hen go through a complex courtship ritual, in which the hen essentially "grades" the rooster, and determines if he is a suitable mate. Then the cloacal contact occurs, and the sperm from the rooster travels to the place where the eggs are in the hen. An egg is fertilized, and after some time, the hen lays her eggs. Thanks for your question. Lyle D. Burgoon
Try the links in the MadSci Library for more information on Zoology.