Cheated?

Did the second female know that the male already had a partner – or did he cheat on her? Some scientists believe the latter, but that has not yet been proven.

A hard life

Perhaps she knew, but was unable to find an unoccupied partner. In that case, it is best to mate before it becomes too late in the season, especially since there is no guarantee that she will still be alive the following year. This way, she is able to produce at least some offspring.