The Ruff is a European shorbird that is sometimes reported in the U.S., usually in the winter and in non-breeding plumage. In the non-breeding plumage it looks something like a non-breeding Knot. But its breeding plumage is spectacular.
Using genome sequencing scientists have discovered a supergene that determines a males approach to breeding success.
There distinctive styles have been observered.
The Ruff (males) create leks, where the Reeves (females) come to select a partner. The males take 3 distinctive approaches, apparently dtereminced by their genetics.
1. Territorial breeding males have spectacular plumes around their neck (the source of the name “ruff”) and head which vary significantly in coloration so that each male can be identified.
2. Non-territorial, referred to as ‘satellite’ males, usually display white feathers. These sneaky birds concentrate on stealing mates from the territorial displaying males.
3. Going a step further up the scale of sneakeness are the cross-dressers. Their plumage looks more like the plain female. They are able to hide from other males in the lek, so avoiding territorial aggression, and succeed by effectively stealing mates from the resident males.
Additional images and information on Wikipedia.
The research was reported on Nature.com.