Spontaneous continuous release of spermatozoa and its predawn surge in male passerine birds

Spontaneous, continuous release of morphologically normal spermatozoa occurs in males of species of passerine (order Passeriformes) birds that were examined. It was demonstrated and studied quantitatively in temporarily captive and isolated house sparrows and house finches by means of repetitive cloacal lavages and extraction of excreta. It is suggested that this phenomenon could be exploited to facilitate comparative and quantitative evaluations of release of spermatozoa in relation to diverse environmental, physiological, and social factors.