We apparently can learn something from the birds and the bees
when it comes to human sexuality: new research shows that, just
like humans, stressed-out birds are more likely to cheat on
their partners. Scientists used to think that the majority of
birds were monogamous, but we now know that most "cheat" on
their "spouses" and that global warming exacerbates the trend:
researchers found that females in unstable climates lay more
eggs that lack their spouse's DNA and swap mates more often
between breeding. Researchers also discovered that female birds
are more likely to stray if their male spouses aren't bringing
enough to the table. "A tern that brings plenty of fish back to
the nest one season may not be able to find any fish the next,
prompting his mate to seek out a better partner," according to
the study. (Hey, did these bird-ladies read my post earlier
today on marriage as "luxury"?!?) Some really harsh birds will
drop a beau if he's not looking too fly, and formerly-pretty
males can lose their shiny plum