Brood parasitism has become one of the most flourishing areas of research in evolutionary ecology and one of the best model systems for investigating coevolution. This subject has undergone remarkable advances during the last two decades, but has not been covered by any book in the 21st century. This book offers a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of the fascinating field of avian brood parasitism. The topics covered include conspecific brood parasitism
evolution and phylogenetic history of avian brood parasites
parasitic behaviour used by brood parasites
adaptations and counter-adaptations of brood parasites and their hosts at every stage of the breeding cycle (before laying, egg, chick and fledgling stages)
factors affecting the evolution of host defences and parasitic attacks
the role of phenotypic plasticity in host defences
mechanisms driving egg recognition and rejection
evolution of nest sharing or nest killing by brood parasite chicks
begging behaviour in parasitized nests and food delivery by host adults
and recognition of conspecifics by juvenile brood parasites. This volume provides a comprehensive reference resource for readers and researchers with an interest in birds, behaviour and evolution, as well as a source of hypotheses and predictions for future investigations into this dynamic subject.