 Harems provide protection for the females within a particular harem, as dominant males will fiercely ward off potential invaders.This level of protection may also, such in the case of the common pheasant, reduce the energy in female expended on remaining alert to, or fleeing from, invading males.Harems allow bonding and socialization among the female members, which can result in greater control over access to females as determined by the females' preferences.