Trends in breeding phenology across ten decades show varying adjustments to environmental changes in four wader species

Hans Meltofte, Ole Amstrup, Troels Leuenhagen Petersen, Frank Farsø Rigét, Anders P. Tøttrup

    3 Citationer (Scopus)

    Abstract

    Capsule: During 1928–2016, initiation of egg-laying advanced in two wader species, remained
    unchanged in one, and was delayed in one species. The changes across years and variation
    among species can be explained by climatic variables and differences in migratory strategies.
    Aims: To document possible changes in initiation of egg-laying in common Danish wader species
    since the early part of the 20th century and seek possible correlations between egg-laying, timing of
    arrival and environmental factors.
    Methods: Annual records of the first eggs and chicks found on the scientific reserve of Tipperne in
    western Denmark 1928–2016 were analysed using linear regression to determine patterns in timing
    of egg-laying, pre-breeding length and influence of climate factors.
    Results: Two short/medium-distance migrant wader species, Northern Lapwing Vanellus vanellus
    and Common Redshank Tringa totanus advanced breeding initiation by about one week, with
    winter North Atlantic oscillation Index and spring temperature as important predictors. By
    contrast, two long-distance migrants, Black-tailed Godwit Limosa limosa and Ruff Calidris pugnax,
    did not advance egg-laying, and Ruff actually delaying it. As a result, the pre-laying period was
    significantly prolonged in both Black-tailed Godwit (21 days) and Ruff (52 days), while there was
    no significant change for Common Redshank.
    Conclusion: Long-distance migrants are able to adjust spring arrival but unlike short/mediumdistance
    migrants, do not necessarily adjust breeding initiation.
    OriginalsprogEngelsk
    TidsskriftBird Study
    Vol/bind65
    Udgave nummer1
    Sider (fra-til)44–51
    Antal sider8
    ISSN0006-3657
    DOI
    StatusUdgivet - 2 jan. 2018

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