Phenotypic selection on an ornamental trait is not modulated by breeding density in a pied flycatcher population

Most studies of phenotypic selection in the wild have focused on morphological and life-history traits and looked at abiotic (climatic) variation as the main driver of selection. Consequently, our knowledge of the effects of biotic environmental variation on phenotypic selection on sexual traits is scarce. Population density can be considered a proxy for the intensity of intra- and inter-sexual competition and could therefore be a key factor influencing the covariation between individual fitness and the expression of sexual traits. Here, we used an individual-based data set from a population of pied flycatchers (Ficedula hypoleuca) monitored over 24 years to analyse the effect of breeding density on phenotypic selection on dorsal plumage colouration, a heritable and sexually selected ornament in males of this species. Using the number of recruits as a fitness proxy, our results show overall stabilizing selection on male dorsal colouration, with intermediate phenotypes being favoured ove..., The methods are described in detail in the manuscript., , # Data from: Phenotypic selection on an ornamental trait is not modulated by breeding density in a pied flycatcher population

[https://doi.org/10.5061/dryad.zcrjdfnf5](https://doi.org/10.5061/dryad.zcrjdfnf5)

## Description of the data and file structure

The variables included in the dataset are: 

year = Sampling year

MaleID= Male identity

FemaleID =Female identity

habitat= The study area containts two study plots, located in an oak (1) or coniferous (2) forest

n.ficed = Number of nest-boxes occupied by pied flycatchers on the given plot and year 

n.other_sp = Number of nest-boxes occupied by other species on the given plot and year

n.Total = total number of nest-boxes installed on the given plot and year

Agem = Male age

Tarsusm = Tarsus lenght (mm)

Dcolour =Dorsal brownness, defined as the percentage of the head and mantle area covered by non-black feathers (brownish, grey or white), excluding the rump and the white forehead patch 

Ld = Laying date

nr = number of recruit...