Populations of prairie chickens have been on the decline for the past three decades, and low populations found within various states are likely due to inbreeding and low egg viability. This team of researchers studied mating patterns of prairie chicken populations within the state of Kansas to identify potential repopulation management practices that could be used around the country.

From their observations, researchers found that mating practices involved the formation of male groups at breeding grounds. Subsequently, females visit these groups and select mates based on aggressive male-to-male interactions.