AVIS-IBIS

Birds of Indian Subcontinent

The Behavioral Ecology of Breeding American Coots in Relation to Age

Publication Type:Journal Article
Year of Publication:1980
Authors:Ryan, MR, Dinsmore, JJ
Journal:The Condor
Volume:82
Issue:3
Date Published:1980
ISBN Number:00105422
Keywords:Fulica, Fulica americana, Fulica atra, Rallidae
Abstract:Time-activity budgets were determined for breeding male and female American Coots (Fulica americana) of three age-classes. Time apportioned to foraging and courtship decreased with age, while time spent in defending territory and feeding young increased with age. We hypothesize that differences in time spent foraging, defending the territory and feeding young are the result of older coots occupying better-quality territories. Such a hypothesis is consistent with the generally assumed wide variability in spatial distribution of energy resources in marsh ecosystems. Such variability seems to be a primary proximate and ultimate factor affecting the reproductive success of American Coots.
URL:http://www.jstor.org/stable/1367401
Short Title:The Condor
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