Entering reproductive season

I saw one bird fly away as another approached.  I read that many animals have difficulty, one way or another, with the necessary closeness of mating.  I guess some species just cast the male contribution into the water (or maybe the air) and it is up to a female to find some and make use of it, if she is interested and ready.  The website "Reptile Knowledge" said that latitude has an effect.  Where there are seasonal effects, spring is a heavier time.  Nearer the equator, the value of the different seasons is more equal.