Thoughts on what we are seeing here?
This green Mads is definitely indicating an interest in courtship!
Rarely seen until a few years ago, green Madses are currently outcompeting both Wouts and Jaspers for territory (green Wouts are now sadly very rare indeed, especially in France). Green Madses have become one of the most commonly seen colour morphs, and are built for speed, rather than the raw power of the common Mads.
This Mads is pictured leaning forwards with one leg raised, demonstrating his strong thigh muscles, so essential for chasing his prey. The "legs-parted" stance is characteristically seen in a Mads who is advertising his fitness as a mate, and is only reinforced by the fact he is leaning forward.
His intended partner appears to be an Anders, a Danish species that is often observed as the hunting partner of the Mads. Although this is not a true symbiosis, the two species are regularly found hunting together. A wild Anders will harry prey, driving it towards a Mads who will make the actual kill. They will then share a social feeding.
In addition, an Anders makes an excellent 'watchman'. If a threat is sighted, the Anders will begin loudly chittering, alerting the Mads whose territory he shares to the presence of the intruder. In return, the Mads will ensure the Anders is protected from other large predators. The Anders above is clearly signalling interest, with his head-tilted posture and placement of a forelimb close to that of the Mads. This is likely the prelude to a formal mating dance. The signs are good that these two will form a very compatible bonded pair!
