How do some females reproduce asexually?

Some females reproduce asexually through the process of producing eggs without the requirement for male fertilization. This form of reproduction is known as parthenogenesis. In parthenogenesis, the female's eggs develop into a new organism without the genetic contribution from a male. This method of reproduction allows for the rapid population increase of a species, particularly in environments where males may be scarce or conditions are favorable for asexual reproduction. It is observed in various species, including certain reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates.

The other methods listed are forms of reproduction but do not directly relate to the definition of asexual reproduction. For instance, laying fertilized eggs requires male sperm, while budding and cloning typically involve different biological processes that may not solely represent the asexual reproductive strategy employed by females.