Skip to main content
WCS
Menu
Library
Library Catalog
eJournals & eBooks
WCS Research
Archives
Research Use
Finding Aids
Digital Collections
WCS History
WCS Research
Research Publications
Science Data
Services for WCS Researchers
Archives Shop
Bronx Zoo
Department of Tropical Research
Browse By Product
About Us
FAQs
Intern or Volunteer
Staff
Donate
Search WCS.org
Search
search
Popular Search Terms
WCS History
Library and Archives
Library and Archives Menu
Library
Archives
WCS Research
Archives Shop
About Us
Donate
en
fr
Title
CAUSES OF NEST DESERTION DURING INCUBATION IN THE MAGELLANIC PENGUIN (SPHENISCUS-MAGELLANICUS)
Author(s)
YORIO, P; BOERSMA, PD
Published
1994
Publisher
Condor
Abstract
We quantified the causes and rate of nest desertions in Magellanic Penguins (Spheniscus magellanicus) during the egg stage at Punta Tombo, Argentina. Incubating Magellanic Penguins rarely deserted. The average desertion rate during seven years was 11% (SD = 9.2%). Desertions were poorly correlated with the length of the incubation spell and only 25% of the desertion could be accounted for by delayed nest relief. Body condition at the start of the incubation spell appears to be the most important factor in determining desertions. Penguins that deserted were lighter for their body size at the time of egg laying than penguins that did not desert. Desertion was significant and common during the first part of incubation, the time when females are present. Flooded nests were more likely to be deserted than nonflooded nests, but desertions from flooding were few. High temperatures did not increase desertion during incubation, thus it is unlikely that heat stress is an important cause of nest desertion. An individual's body condition appears to be the most important factor in explaining desertion but behavior of the mate and other factors can play a role.
Keywords
PYGOSCELIS-ADELIAE; BREEDING BIOLOGY; SEABIRDS; SUCCESS; ECOLOGY; RELIEF; ISLAND
Access Full Text
A full-text copy of this article may be available. Please email the
WCS Library
to request.
Back
PUB11833