Migratory Birds Research Papers - Academia.edu (original) (raw)

communities, values of b i,j were selected from uniform distributions between 0 and 20.1 (plant-plant competition), 20.3 (herbivores ! plants; that is, the effect of herbivores on plants), 0.1 (plants ! herbivores), 20.1 (predators ! herbivores), and 0.05 (herbivores ! predators). Intraspecific interactions were selected at random between 20.1 and 20.2 for plants, and set to 20.2 for herbivores and predators. For competitive communities, interspecific values of b i,j were selected uniformly between 0 and 20.1, and intraspecific values between 20.06 and 20.16. For the arbitrary topology, the probability of any pair of species interacting was 0.5, and of the interacting pairs of species 45% were competitors, 45% were prey and predators, and 10% were mutualists. The magnitudes of interspecific values of b i,j were selected uniformly between 0 and 0.1, with sign dictated by type of interaction, and intraspecific values were selected between 20.06 and 20.16.

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- Geography, Multidisciplinary, Nature, Magnetic field

The ontogeny of orientation mechanisms in migratory birds involves a complex of programmed learning rules and calibrations between the several compasses used during migration. Visual information at sunset, especially the pattern of polarized skylight, provides a primary source of orientation information for night-migrating species. To examine the development of visual orientation mechanisms at sunset, hand-raised Savannah sparrows, Passerculus sandwichensis, were given controlled experience with the clear daytime sky during the first 3 months of life. One group of birds saw the daytime sky only within an earth-strength magnetic field with magnetic north shifted 90 clockwise to true east; a control group had similar exposure to the sky within a normal, unshifted magnetic field. Orientation tests were performed on clear evenings between the time of sunset and the first appearance of stars within a vertical magnetic field of normal earth intensity (no directional magnetic information). There was no difference in the orientation of the two groups: both showed southwestward orientation. Contrary to indications from earlier experiments, the visual orientation mechanism at sunset develops independently of magnetic directions and, in this context, is similar to the ontogeny of stellar orientation.

- by Kenneth Able
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- Geology, Perception, Animal Behaviour, Magnetic field

We present data on capture and recapture of neotrop- ical migrants at constant-effort mist net sampling lo- cations in Utah between 1994 and 2002. Data were collected in accordance with MAPS (Monitoring Avian Productivity and Survivorship) protocols. Since 1994, a total of 23,789 birds have been captured (i.e., total cap- tures include new captures, recaptures, and unbanded individuals) representing 149 species. Data collected thus far provide some measure of site fidelity and long- evity for species breeding in and migrating through Utah. Of the 18,358 birds banded, 2,367 (12.9 percent) were subsequently recaptured at least once. The longest interval between initial capture and recapture was over eight years. Assessments of subcutaneous fat carried by each bird captured were also made in accordance with MAPS protocols. Using Yellow Warbler (Dendroica petechia) as an example, we calculated an estimated maximum travel distance (EMTD) that migrants can fly from Utah on the energy deri...

- by Frank Howe
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- Data Collection, Site fidelity, Migratory Birds, Capture recapture

Towards the end of the thirteenth century, the Albuquerque Basin of New
Mexico saw a significant increase in population from Puebloan peoples
migrating into the valley. By the time of the Coronado expedition in 1541–1542, this area contained 12 large pueblos along the roughly 55 km long by 5 km wide Rio Grande floodplain, resulting in one of the densest concentrations of pueblos and agricultural fields in the Eastern Pueblo region. Zooarchaeological analyses of Classic Period faunal assemblages have yielded an abundance and diversity of wild bird remains with an emphasis towards migratory birds that reside in the region during the winter. These avifauna are almost entirely absent from the archaeological record of the preceding Developmental Period. This paper argues that changes in Puebloan farming practices between the two periods had a direct effect on shifting the traditional wintering grounds of these migratory birds northwards into the Albuquerque Basin.

En muchas especies es imposible distinguir visualmente los sexos, si bien en algunas de
ellas, machos y hembras muestran pequeñas, pero cuantificables, diferencias biométricas que pueden usarse para discriminarlos. Este es el caso del grupo de los mosquiteros Phylloscopus, en los que se usa la longitud alar para distinguir los sexos. Hemos desarrollado un método en el que además del ala se tiene en cuenta el tarso y en el que mediante probabilidades multivariantes hemos aumentado la proporción de individuos que se pueden discriminar en tres especies: mosquitero común P. collybita, mosquitero musical P. trochilus y mosquitero ibérico P. ibericus. Además, nuestro método de sexado no tiene sesgos hacia uno de los dos sexos. El objetivo de este artículo es ofrecer una guía práctica para la implementación de nuestro método usando el software libre R.

- by Oscar Gordo
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- Statistics, Applied Statistics, Biometrics, Birds (Ecology)
- by Haluk Direskeneli
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- Airport Development, Airports, Bird Strike Research, Migratory Birds

Wind energy development represents significant challenges and opportunities in contemporary wildlife management. Such challenges include the large size and extensive placement of turbines that may represent potential hazards to birds and bats. However, the associated infrastructure required to support an array of turbines-such as roads and transmission lines-represents an even larger potential threat to wildlife than the turbines themselves because such infrastructure can result in extensive habitat fragmentation and can provide avenues for invasion by exotic species. There are numerous conceptual research opportunities that pertain to issues such as identifying the best and worst placement of sites for turbines that will minimize impacts on birds and bats. Unfortunately, to date very little research of this type has appeared in the peer-reviewed scientific literature; much of it exists in the form of unpublished reports and other forms of gray literature. In this paper, we summarize what is known about the potential impacts of wind farms on wildlife and identify a 3-part hierarchical approach to use the scientific method to assess these impacts. The Lower Gulf Coast (LGC) of Texas, USA, is a region currently identified as having a potentially negative impact on migratory birds and bats, with respect to wind farm development. This area is also a region of vast importance to wildlife from the standpoint of native diversity, nature tourism, and opportunities for recreational hunting. We thus use some of the emergent issues related to wind farm development in the LGC-such as siting turbines on cropland sites as opposed to on native rangelands-to illustrate the kinds of challenges and opportunities that wildlife managers must face as we balance our demand for sustainable energy with the need to conserve and sustain bird migration routes and corridors, native vertebrates, and the habitats that support them.

- by Fred Bryant
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- Geography, Wind Energy, Exotic Species, Wildlife Conservation

Millions of raptors and other Neotropical migratory birds are constrained to a narrow geographic corridor during migration through Veracruz, México. Over many years of work, a clearly identifi ed list of problems has defi ned the agenda of a long-term conservation plan for this globally important migration stopover site. Threats to migrants include habitat loss, pesticide use, and negative human attitudes towards raptors that result in direct persecution. The Veracruz River of Raptors Project (VRR) started in 1991 as a long-term initiative to address these problems. Its adaptive conservation plan is based on three core strategic lines of work: 1) research, focused on identifying key stopover habitat sites, understanding migration ecology, and assessing conservation risk by species/habitat associations; 2) monitoring, through a long-term program to track populations based on migration counts and banding, and 3) environmental education, through an alliance to implement programs with students and teachers in rural and urban schools and permanent, year-round presence through its new Mario A. Ramos Bird Observatory. These activities are supported by three core processes for long-term sustainability: a) an international training scheme to ensure qualifi ed human resources; b) a renewable fundraising system that includes a membership program, a private donor base, an ecotourism program, and a continuous fundraising process through foundations, and c) the formalization of partnerships and development of a network of contacts, from local to international, to support the work developed onsite. This approach to conservation implementation has sustained the VRR Project for 18 years. We anticipate utilizing these same strategies to advance the project's goals in the future.

- by Eduardo Leyva
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- Environmental Education, Human Resource, Conservation planning, Habitat loss
- by Bishnu Bhandari
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- Wetlands, Biology, Invasive Species, Water Pollution

Se presentan los resultados del Censo Neotropical de Aves Acuáticas de Venezuela (CNAAV) realizado durante el 2018. El censo se realizó del 03 al 18 de febrero y del 07 al 22 de julio. Se contó con la participación de 31 censistas que visitaron 31 localidades de nueve estados. Se registraron 52 especies residentes, nueve especies residentes con poblaciones migratorias y 21 especies migratorias neárticas, para un total de 93.422 individuos (16.057 en febrero y 77.365 en julio) pertenecientes a 22 familias y nueve órdenes. Como en años anteriores, las especies más abundantes fueron la cotúa (Phalacrocorax brasilianus) y el flamenco (Phoenicopterus ruber). Cuando se compararon estas abundancias con años anteriores se observó una tendencia a la disminución. Entre las especies migratorias, las más abundantes fueron el playerito semipalmeado (Calidris pusilla), el playerito menudo (C. minutilla) y el playero acollarado (Charadrius semipalmatus). Resalta el avistamiento de la gaviota dorsinegra menor (Larus fuscus), previamente reportada solo una vez en el CNAAV. En cuanto a las localidades, Produsal (ahora llamada Salina Solar Los Olivitos, Sitio Internacional de la RHRAP), fue la que presentó mayor abundancia de aves en febrero; para julio lo fue el Refugio de Fauna Silvestre y Reserva de Pesca de los Olivitos, ambas en el estado Zulia. La localidad con mayor riqueza en febrero fue el Sector Adícora (Falcón), mientras que en julio fue la Bahía El Saco en la Isla de Coche. *English version* Neotropical Waterbird Census in Venezuela 2018 / This paper shows the 2018 Venezuelan Neotropical Waterbird Census (CNAAV) results. Surveys were conducted from February 03 to 18 and from July 07 to 22. Survey participants were 16 volunteers that visited 31 localities in nine states. A total of 52 resident species were recorded, as well as nine resident species with migratory populations and 21 Nearctic migrants, accounting 93,422 individuals (16,057 in February; 77,365 in July), belonging to 22 families and nine orders. As in previous years, the most abundant species were the Neotropical Cormorant (Phalacrocorax brasilianus) and the American Flamingo (Phoenicopterus ruber). When their abundances were compared to previous years, a decreasing tendency was noted. From migratory species, the most abundant were the Semipalmated Sandpiper (Calidris pusilla), the Least Sandpiper (C. minutilla), and the Semipalmated Plover (Charadrius semipalmatus). Sighting of the Lesser Black-backed Gull fuscus is noteworthy, reported only once in previous CNAAV. About localities, Produsal (now called Salina Solar Los Olivitos, a focal site of Western Hemisphere Shorebird Reserve Network) harbored the greatest abundance of birds in February, and Refugio de Fauna Silvestre y Reserva de Pesca Ciénaga de los Olivitos in July, both in Zulia state. The locality with the highest richness was Adícora Sector (Falcón) in February, and El Saco Bay on Coche island in July.

- by Rafael Gianni-Zurita and +2
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- Wetlands, Urban Wetlands, Bird Census, Bird Conservation

This paper reports on the total distribution of spring migration timing of willow warbler, chiffchaff and pied flycatcher at locations in the UK, Germany, Russia and Finland. This is the first time that high-quality data based on known-effort monitoring has been examined on a continental scale. First arrival dates, commonly reported in the literature, were positively correlated with mean arrival dates although they would not make good predictors of the latter. At all locations, at least one aspect of the arrival distribution of each species had got significantly earlier in recent years. The trend towards earliness was associated with warmer local temperatures and more positive winter North Atlantic Oscillation index. In years that were early, the arrival distribution became more elongated and skewed. Researchers should now investigate the consequences of earlier arrival on current and future bird populations.

- by T. Sparks and +2
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- Global Change Biology, North Atlantic Oscillation, Biological Sciences, Environmental Sciences
- by Wich'yanan Limparungpatthanakij
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- Ornithology, Birds (Ecology), Seabirds, Birds

Wetlands are internationally recognized as a crucial habitat type for the conservation of many migratory birds. Despite the fact that many bats are also long-distant migrants, the importance of foraging habitats for sustaining migrant bats has to date received little attention. We analyzed habitat selection patterns in the migrant bat, Nathusius' pipistrelle Pipistrellus nathusii, in the southernmost part of its range (Iberian Peninsula), an area in which both mating and hibernation occur. We found that natural wetlands and riparian habitats (Phragmites reed beds) were positively selected, whereas human-transformed aquatic habitats (rice paddies) were avoided. Although semi-natural human-managed wetlands are perceived as being valuable for many species, our data emphasizes the importance of preserving natural wetlands (including riparian forests) as appropriate habitats for sustaining crucial phases of the life cycle of this bat. Agricultural transformation of the land is likely to be detrimental to this species since it reduces the availability of its preferred foraging habitat.

- by Xavier Puig Montserrat and +2
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- Zoology, Wetlands, Conservation, Reproduction

As most of the research on birds in Nepal were focused on protected species, this study was
conducted to assess the bird species diversity along with their conservation status and their
status (resident/migratory) in various land covers around Chitwan National Park. Trail transect,
sound recognition and direct observation methods were used to observe and record various bird
species. Five different land covers (forest, farmland, residential areas, grassland, areas near
water resources) were selected and 2 km long trail was followed on each site for 2 days
consequently in dusk and dawn. A total of 63 species of birds of 27 families were observed in
forest, 22 species of birds of 11 families were observed in grassland, 29 species of birds of 23
families were observed in farmland, 24 species of birds of 19 families were observed in
residential areas and 48 species of birds of 18 families were observed near water resources were
observed. Family Accipitridae had the highest number (nine) of species in forest, family
Muscicapidae had the highest number (five) of species on grassland, family Psittaculidae the
highest number (three) of species on farmland and family Ardeidae had the highest number
(five) of species near water sources. The study has shown the number of bird species along with
their conservation status in various land covers. Thus, timely monitoring, proper conservation
and proper land-use planning is necessary for the conservation of various bird species and their
diversity that are present in our environment as different bird species require different habitats
to live and reproduce.

- by Nishan Pokhrel
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- Avifauna, Birds, Migratory Birds, Chitwan

We investigated the risk associated with crossing the Sahara Desert for migrating birds by evaluating more than 90 journeys across this desert by four species of raptors (osprey Pandion haliaetus, honey buzzard Pernis apivorus, marsh harrier Circus aeruginosus and Eurasian hobby Falco subbuteo) recorded by satellite telemetry. Forty per cent of the crossings included events of aberrant behaviours, such as abrupt course changes, slow travel speeds, interruptions, aborted crossings followed by retreats from the desert and failed crossings due to death, indicating difficulties for the migrants. The mortality during the Sahara crossing was 31 per cent per crossing attempt for juveniles (first autumn migration), compared with only 2 per cent for adults (autumn and spring combined). Mortality associated with the Sahara passage made up a substantial fraction (up to about half for juveniles) of the total annual mortality, demonstrating that this passage has a profound influence on survival and fitness of migrants. Aberrant behaviours resulted in late arrival at the breeding grounds and an increased probability of breeding failure (carry-over effects). This study also demonstrates that satellite tracking can be a powerful method to reveal when and where birds are exposed to enhanced risk and mortality during their annual cycles.

- by R. Strandberg
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- Satellite Communications, Biological Sciences, Animal migration, Weather

Three North African coastal lagoons were selected as primary sites for integrated ecological and hydrological monitoring and modelling as part of the MELMARINA Project (see . The three sites, Merja Zerga (13.2 km 2 , Morocco), Ghar El Melh (35.6 km 2 , Tunisia) and Lake Manzala (c. 700 km 2 , Egypt), are permanent water bodies with at least one well-defined connection with the sea. This article provides an account of each lagoon's physical characteristics and recent development including the impacts of human activities. The two sites on the Mediterranean (Ghar El Melh and Lake Manzala) are characterised by small tidally driven variations in water level whilst Merga Zerga, on the Atlantic coast, experiences large tidally induced water level variations and so contains large inter-tidal environments. All the three lagoons

- by F. Ayache and +1
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- Earth Sciences, Climate Change, Wastewater Treatment, Biological Sciences

Dr. B. A. M. University, Aurangabad is having very good biodiversity having a different type of flora and fauna. It surrounded by hilly area having two small water bodies and different type of flowering and fruit plants on its surrounding campus which provides grounds for feeding, breeding and nesting for avian fauna. The field survey was made to assess the campus for the avian fauna by conducting daily observations. During field survey the about 61 species of birds were recorded in all seasons due to different habitats present at university campus, out of watershed catchments, from flowering tree shelters, and from marshy areas. Out of these, some are common birds which are observed perennially like Pond heron, Cattle egret, White breasted kingfisher, Red wattled lapwing, Indian ring dove, Crow pheasant, Jungle babbler, Common myna, Rose ringed parakeet, Tailor bird, Purple rumped sunbird, Indian robin, Magpie robin. Some birds are seasonal like Black Ibis, European hoopoe, Coppersmith barbet. These are more frequently observed in winter. Grey hornbill, Tree pie are seen in starting of Rainy season. The University campus is having rich diversity of avian fauna.

- by B L Chavan
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- Conservation Biology, Academic Writing, Ecology, Biodiversity

Water birds reflect the habitat integrity of a wetland. Birds tend to stay longer in areas that sustain food, shelter, and other life-support systems. In Candaba Swamp, migratory birds dwindle over the last ten years. Only 1,449 were recorded in 2018, the lowest since 2010 with 13,160 birds. This is critical because the swamp serves as a major refuge habitat during Siberian cold winds for many species of migratory and local birds. Land use change and water loss worsen the swamp's diminishing habitat integrity. Moreover, difficulty in monitoring due to the wetland's vastness and inaccessibility remains a challenge. However, satellite-derived information like Landsat provides a cheaper and easier method in studying the vegetation dynamics and seasonal water occurrence of wetlands. This research attempts to improve the habitat integrity of Candaba Swamp by identifying key conservation and preservation areas in the bird sanctuary. By doing so, landscape architecture intervention and spatial analysis advance. Using Google Earth Engine and Landsat data, the vegetation dynamics and seasonal water occurrence were studied. Specifically, Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) dataset from 2013-2019, and Global Surface Water (GSW) information from 1984-2015 were utilized to perform the task. A total of 38 potential habitat zones were explored by overlaying the existing habitat patches over the collected multi-spectral vegetation profile (NDVI) and seasonal water occurrence dataset (GSW). Analyses suggested the implementation of more strict preservation measures in the existing bird sanctuary (patch 5, 4, 3). The GSW dataset also revealed that patch 33,34,35, and 36 hold water resources that may serve as new nesting and breeding grounds for birds. However, these patches also record high water loss over the years. Lastly, a stronger observance of land use change particularly in lieu of agricultural farms and residential areas expansions were noted in patch 38, 29, 22, 20, 34, 36. This study advances the convergence of satellite-derived information as cutting-edge tool in monitoring ecological functions. The process reveals the use of multi-spectral dataset in Google Earth Engine in informing new policies and improving ecological functions.

The ratio of DDE to PCB (DDE:PCB) concentrations was examined in herring gull (Lams argentatus) eggs collected from thirteen sites on the Great Lakes from 1979 to 1996. This ratio has been shown to have had a number of biological interpretations in the past and the data in this study have been used to test the validity of these interpretations. The findings suggest that the consistency of DDE:PCB over many years reflects the relative availability of DDT and PCB in different geographical areas and provides an indication of a bird's general foraging ecology. The ratio can also be used as a reflection of the relative rates of increase or decrease of DDE and PCBs in food over time. A significant increase was found in the ratio in eggs sampled from sites on the upper Great Lakes and Lake Ontario during the study period. This is attributed to PCB levels decreasing faster than DDE levels at these sites. At Lake Erie and its two connecting channels, a significant increase was detected in the ratio but at a rate 56% or less than that found at other Great Lakes sites. This lower rate is attributed to DDE and PCB levels decreasing at high and equal rates. Similarities/differences in the fates of these contaminants among the Great Lakes would never have been realized upon an examination of individual contaminant levels alone. The ratio is valuable as a measure of the relative exposure of the two contaminants in nonmigratory birds such as herring gulls. The use of the ratio as an indication of contamination movement through the food chain could not be assessed; the ratio cannot be used as a reflection of the interspecific differences in the accumulation and metabolism of the two contaminants. Similarities in the patterns of these ratios shown by eggs collected from sites in close proximity or within the same lake reinforce the fact that herring gulls are important as monitors of regional contaminant conditions.

- by Kimberley Hughes
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- Environmental Engineering, Great Lakes, Foraging ecology, Lake Erie

This report aims to describe the broad-scale trends necessary for designing and targeting informed conservation strategies at the flyway level to address these reported declines. To do this, we examine abundance change in selected Arctic breeding bird species, incorporating information from both inside and outside the Arctic (Figure 1) to capture possible influences at different points during a species annual cycle. The inclusion of trend information from non-Arctic locations confers a number of other advantages: data are readily available from key sites where individuals congregate in large, easy-to-count flocks; and adding these data allows for better disaggregation of trends due to larger data set size, thus providing the opportunity to elucidate the regional differences that have already been reported in the literature (Zöckler et al. 2013). Importantly, this addition also makes sense politically as the selected species are dependent on interconnected sites across the globe, meaning that suitable and effective conservation strategies can only be devised through international collaboration.

- by Tom Barry and +1
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- Conservation, Biodiversity, Arctic, Migratory Birds

Many studies have reported statistically significant associations between bird migratory phenology and climatic variables, and, consequently, it is mostly accepted that recent shifts in migration dates are a reaction to present climate change. Impacts of weather and climate on departure date, progression and stopover frequency and duration have been reviewed in order to explain the current knowledge of climatic mechanisms underlying such phenological shifts. Climate in departure areas can affect population phenology via the size of the returning population. In a short-term sense, ecological conditions can affect acquisition of migratory body condition during the days preceding departure. Migratory phenology can also be affected by quality and quantity of replaced feathers during moult. Adverse weather conditions en route strongly hinder the progression of individuals and even force them to land. The time spent on stopovers will greatly depend on the ecological conditions there and the opportunities for refuelling. Temperature is by far the climatic variable most frequently related to avian phenology. The use of climatic indices is spreading because they have the advantage of synthesizing weather conditions into a single variable. Remote sensing is probably the best option to explore ecological conditions in areas used by migratory species. Most of the climatic variables employed are from the arrival area, while climate from passage or departure areas is rarely assessed. The overwhelming majority of studies have used variables defined by months, while the use of periods designed ad hoc according to species’ biology is almost anecdotal. It can be concluded that further research is needed to disentangle the true relevance of each type of climatic variable over avian migratory phenology during each phase of migration.

- by Oscar Gordo
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- Ornithology, Climate Change, Migration, Phenology
- by David Ewert and +1
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- Lake Erie, Migratory Birds

The East Asian-Australasian Flyway supports the greatest diversity and populations of migratory birds globally, as well as the highest number of threatened migratory species of any flyway, including passerines (15 species). However it is also one of the most poorly understood migration systems, and little is known about the populations and ecology of the passerine migrants that breed, stop over and winter in the habitats along this flyway. We provide the first flyway-wide review of diversity, ecology, and conservation issues relating to 170 species of long-distance and over 80 short-distance migrants from 32 families. Recent studies of songbird migration movements and ecology is limited, and is skewed towards East Asia, particularly Mainland China, Taiwan, Russia, Japan and South Korea. Strong evidence of declines exists for some species, e.g. Yellow-breasted Bunting Emberiza aureola , but tends to be fragmentary, localised or anecdotal for many others. More species have small breeding ranges (< 250,000 km 2 ) and/or are dependent on tropical forests as wintering habitat than those in any other Eurasian migratory system, and are thus more vulnerable to habitat loss and degradation throughout their ranges. Poorly regulated hunting for food and the pet trade, invasive species and collisions with man-made structures further threaten migratory songbirds at a number of stop-over or wintering sites, while climate change and habitat loss may be of increasing concern in the breeding ranges. A key conservation priority is to carry out intensive field surveys across the region while simultaneously tapping into citizen science datasets, to identify important stop-over and wintering sites, particularly for poorly-known or globally threatened species across South-East Asia and southern China for targeted conservation actions. Additionally, the advent of miniaturised tracking technology, molecular and isotopic techniques can provide novel insights into migration connectivity, paths and ecology for species in this migration system, complementing data from banding exercises and observation-based surveys, and could prove useful in informing conservation priorities. However, until most states along the East Asian-Australasian flyway ratify the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS) and other cross-boundary treaties, the relative lack of crossboundary cooperation, coordination and information sharing in the region will continue to present a stumbling block for effective conservation of migratory passerines.

- by Ding Li Yong
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- Conservation, East Asia, Southeast Asia, Ecology

The study revealed a total of 33 wetland bird species belonging to 11 families were recorded from Magadi Bird Sanctuary of Gadag District, Karnataka. Among the family, Scolopacidae dominated the list by the representation of 8 species, followed by the Anatidae with 7 species and least by Laridae, Gruidae, Rallidae, and Recurvirostridae with one species each. Of the total birds recorded based on the density and abundance, Bar-headed geese was found as the dominant species, followed by the Demoiselle Crane, Brahminy Shelduck, Lesser-whistling Duck, Black-headed Ibis, Spot-billed Duck, Black Ibis, and Common Coot, etc., The study also revealed that the lake is a vulnerable wetland harboring plenty of resident as well as few migratory birds. Four globally near threatened species were recorded like Black-headed Ibis (Threskiornis melanocephalus), Painted Stork (Mycteria leucocephala), Black-tailed Godwit (Limosa limosa) and River Tern (Sterna aurantia) have a protected status under the schedule IV of Indian Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. The present study location is also facing tremendous conservation challenges by the impact of anthropogenic alteration of the habitats in and around the lake.

- by Harisha MN
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- Wetland Ecology, Migration Studies, Wetland Management, Wetland Conservation

The phylogeny and the biogeographical history of the genus Vanilla was investigated using four chloroplastic genes (psbB, psbC; psaB and rbcL), on 47 accessions of Vanilla chosen from the ex situ CIRAD collection maintained in Reunion Island and additional sequences from GenBank. Bayesian methods provided a fairly well supported reconstruction of the phylogeny of the Vanilloideae sub-family and more particularly of the genus Vanilla. Three major phylogenetic groups in the genus Vanilla were differentiated, which is in disagreement with the actual classification in two sections (Foliosae and Aphyllae) based on morphological traits. Recent Bayesian relaxed molecular clock methods allowed to test the two main hypotheses of the phylogeography of the genus Vanilla. Early radiation of the Vanilla genus and diversification by vicariance consecutive to the break-up of Gondwana, 95 million years ago (Mya), was incompatible with the admitted age of origin of Angiosperm. Based on the Vanilloideae age recently estimated to 71 million years ago (Mya), we conclude that the genus Vanilla would have appeared $34 Mya in South America, when continents were already separated. Nevertheless, whatever the two extreme scenarios tested, at least three long distance migration events are needed to explain the present distribution of Vanilla species in tropical areas. These transoceanic dispersions could have occurred via transoceanic passageway such as the Rio Grande Ridge and the involvement of floating vegetation mats and migratory birds.

- by Rodolphe gigant and +1
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- Evolutionary Biology, Genetics, Zoology, Geography

In January 2001, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers exceeded its statutory authority by asserting Clean Water Act (CWA) jurisdiction over non-navigable, isolated, intrastate waters based solely on their use by migratory birds. The Supreme Court's majority opinion addressed broader issues of CWA jurisdiction by implying that the CWA intended some ''connection'' to navigability and that isolated waters need a ''significant nexus'' to navigable waters to be jurisdictional. Subsequent to this decision (SWANCC), there have been many lawsuits challenging CWA jurisdiction, many of which are focused on headwater, intermittent, and ephemeral streams. To inform the legal and policy debate surrounding this issue, we present information on the geographic distribution of headwater streams and intermittent and ephemeral streams throughout the U.S., summarize major findings from the scientific literature in considering hydrological connectivity between headwater streams and downstream waters, and relate the scientific information presented to policy issues surrounding the scope of waters protected under the CWA. Headwater streams comprise approximately 53% (2,900,000 km) of the total stream length in the U.S., excluding Alaska, and intermittent and ephemeral streams comprise approximately 59% (3,200,000 km) of the total stream length and approximately 50% (1,460,000 km) of the headwater stream length in the U.S., excluding Alaska. Hillslopes, headwater streams, and downstream waters are best described as individual elements of integrated hydrological systems. Hydrological connectivity allows for the exchange of mass, momentum, energy, and organisms longitudinally, laterally, vertically, and temporally between headwater streams and downstream waters. Via hydrological connectivity, headwater, intermittent and ephemeral streams cumulatively contribute to the functional integrity of downstream waters; hydrologically and ecologically, they are a part of the tributary system. As this debate continues, scientific input from multiple fields will be important for policymaking at the federal, state, and local levels and to inform water resource management regardless of the level at which those decisions are being made. Strengthening the interface between science, policy, and public participation is critical if we are going to achieve effective water resource management.

- by Mark Rains
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- Environmental Engineering, Civil Engineering, Science Policy, Energy

A review was made of the bird species registered in different sites that are part of the upper watershed of the Sapo river, a continuous forest ecosystem in different states of succession of 6,000 hectares, which represent the largest private protected area that could be established in El Salvador. This standard list, generated from field visits and the review of multiple sources, including 28 ornithological works, can help to make a bird analysis and its importance, especially for the protection of vulnerable and little-known species in the country. This in order to create a mechanism to help protect this area. From this review, we recorded a total of 231 species, the first published record of the Buff-collared Nightjar (Antrostomus ridgwayi), as a new species for the country. The Mountain Trogon (Trogon mexicanus) which for El Salvador is only known in the mountains of the department of Morazán and the new national distribution of Black Swift (Cypseloides niger), Rufous-necked Wood-Rail (Aramides axillaris) and Black-throated Blue Warbler (Setophaga caerulescens).

- by Nestor Herrera and +1
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- Ornithology, Bird (Ornithology), El Salvador, Protected areas

La bisbita llanera (Anthus spragueii) es considerada una especie Vulnerable por la lista roja de especies en peligro de UICN por su marcada declinación poblacional de aproximadamente el 81.4% en los últimos 40 años, además de que los ecosistemas de pastizal a los que se asocian sus hábitats se encuentran altamente amenazados. En Estados Unidos y Canadá está ubicada en estatus de protección,
pero en México no está catalogada en alguna categoría según la norma ecológica (NOM-059-ECOL-2010), debido a la falta de información técnica sobre la especie. Ante esta situación, se elaboró el plan de conservación de la bisbita llanera (Anthus spragueii) en el Desierto Chihuahuense con el objetivo de establecer las líneas de acción necesarias que encaminen la conservación integral de las especies y los
objetos asociados, a través de un proceso de planeación participativa de especialistas, científicos y actores involucrados.

- by Pronatura Noreste and +1
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- Grassland Ecology, Birds (Ecology), Bird Conservation, Bird Migration

- by Ernesto Ruelas Inzunza and +2
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- Environmental Education, Human Resource, Conservation planning, Habitat loss

We model the yearly cycle of small migratory birds to explain the variation in scheduling of complete molt, in particular why some birds molt immediately after breeding on the breeding grounds (summer molt) whereas others migrate to their wintering grounds before molt is initiated (winter molt). We employ the method of dynamic programming, because of its suitability for modelling life history traits. Feather quality and latitude entered the model as state variables and were assumed to affect survival rate and reproductive success. Migration and molt were assumed to be associated with increased mortality risks. By changing the parameters in the model we were able to generate most existing molt patterns, including summer and winter molt, biannual (summer and winter) molt, and molt migration. Our model suggests that the scheduling of molt is basically a result of a trade-off between having a high feather quality during breeding versus during the non-breeding period. A high impact of feather quality on survival rate in combination with low costs of molt resulted in biannual molt. Winter molt became more likely as the survival rateper se increased. A low seasonal amplitude in survival rate is a prerequisite for the occurrence of molt migration. Molt duration, migration costs and reproductive successper se were found to have no impact on the timing of molt. We also investigated the effect of benefits from prior occupancy at breeding and winter grounds.

- by Anders Hedenström
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- Evolutionary Biology, Ecology, Evolutionary Ecology, Seasonality

The study revealed a total of 52 wetland bird species velonging to 15 families and 8 orders. Among them the Family Ardeidae was found to be dominated the list by the representation of 10 species , followed by the Scolopacidae by 7 species; Rallidae by 6 species; Anatidae by 5 species and Motacillidae by 4; whereas the Family Podicipididae, Anhingidae, Rostratulidae and Pecurviorostridae contributed very less by the one species each. The study also revealed that the lake is a vulnerable wetland harboring plenty of resident as well as few migratory birds. Occurrence of five species like Black-headed Ibis (Threskiornis melanocephalus), Painted Stork (Mycteria leucocephala), Darter (Anhinga melanogaster), Black-tailed Godwit (Limosa limosa) and River Tern (Sterna aurantia) were near threatened and protected under the schedule IV of Indian Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, indicating the importance of lake. However, this habitat is facing tremendous conservation challenges by the impact of an-thropogenic activities in and around the lake. Hence, the proper and regular aurveys related to water bird species diversity and awareness of the local people should be conducted for a detailed assessment of the wetland.

- by Harisha MN and +1
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- Wetland Conservation, Wetland Birds, Migratory Birds

Bird collisions with buildings are an increasing concern and yet understanding the factors contributing to collisions at the species level remains largely unknown. This gap in our knowledge of species-specific strike patterns hinders the development of accurate estimates for the impact of death-by-collision on bird populations and impedes on our ability to minimize its effects. Our study offers the first examination of the impact of environmental variables on bird-window collisions at the species level. The Fatal Light Awareness Program Canada collected bird-window collision data in three distinct regions of Toronto, Canada during the migratory season of the years 2009 and 2010. Our results indicated that building percent window cover, exposed habitat cover, and cover of built structures significantly affect bird-window collisions. Multivariate analyses showed that the bird species that collided with buildings surrounded by a high level of urban greenery are species that typically occur in forested habitats and are foliage gleaners. In contrast, species that collided with buildings surrounded by a higher level of urbanization are species that typically occur in open woodland and are ground foragers. These results suggest that the composition of bird species colliding with buildings across various regions of the Greater Toronto Area is influenced by the local bird species community composition, by the configuration of the surrounding landscape, and by the levels of greenery around the buildings.

- by Marine Cusa and +1
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- Human-wildlife conflicts, Wildlife Ecology (habitat Selection and Animal Movement), Birds, Collisions

Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) type A of the subtype H5N1 has recently spread widely and rapidly across Eurasia, and even to Africa, with deaths of both wild and domestic birds recorded. There are fears that it may soon spread to the Americas. Media accounts, communications from international bodies and national governments, and even some of the professional research literature attributes the spread, in part, to movements of HP strains by migratory birds. The origin of highly pathogenic strains is attributed to mutations, or to reassortment of virus genes from different host species. In this paper we review these hypotheses in light of knowledge about the ecology and evolution of avian influenza, looked at from the viewpoint of its natural reservoir -waterbirds. Our purpose here is to alert waterbird biologists that they have much to contribute to the science of this globally-important issue. New technologies have revealed that the genome of avian influenza contains much variation beyond that recognizable by classical antibody techniques, and have established avian influenza as a rapidly evolving and diversifying lineage. The extensive genetic variability in the viral genome and extensive reassortment within host species suggests that high pathogenicity could repeatedly and independently evolve from low pathogenic ancestors under appropriate selection pressures, such as those in poultry production systems. This makes infection of wild birds by HPAI lineages evolved in poultry a more likely occurrence than the reverse. The available evidence largely fits this model. We make recommendations that will help reduce the incursion of domestically-evolved avian influenza strains into wild populations of birds.

- by Ronald Ydenberg
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- Zoology, Ecology, Evolution, New Technology
- by Salvadora Morales
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- Migratory Birds

The Yellow Sea region is of high global importance for waterbird populations, but recent systematic bird count data enabling identification of the most important sites are relatively sparse for some areas. Surveys of waterbirds at three sites on the coast of southern Jiangsu Province, China, in 2014 and 2015 produced peak counts of international importance for 24 species, including seven globally threatened and six Near Threatened species. The area is of particular global importance for the 'Critically Endangered' Spoon-billed Sandpiper Calidris pygmaea (peak count across all three study sites: 62 in spring [2015] and 225 in autumn [2014] and 'Endangered' Spotted Greenshank Tringa guttifer (peak count across all three study sites: 210 in spring [2014] and 1,110 in autumn [2015]). The southern Jiangsu coast is therefore currently the most important migratory stopover area in the world, in both spring and autumn, for both species. Several serious and acute threats to water-birds were recorded at these study sites. Paramount is the threat of large-scale land claim which would completely destroy intertidal mudflats of critical importance to waterbirds. Degradation of intertidal mudflat habitats through the spread of invasive Spartina, and mortality of waterbirds by entrapment in nets or deliberate poisoning are also real and present serious threats here. Collisions with, and displacement by, wind turbines and other structures, and industrial chemical pollution may represent additional potential threats. We recommend the rapid establishment of effective protected areas for waterbirds in the study area, maintaining large areas of open intertidal mud-flat, and the urgent removal of all serious threats currently faced by waterbirds here.

The study revealed a total of 47 wetland bird species belonging to 16 families and 8 orders. Among them the family Ardeidae found to be dominated by the representation of 9 species, followed by the Scolopacidae with 6 species; least by Podicipedidae, Anhingidae, Rostratulidae, Recurvirostridae and Laridae with one species each. The study also revealed that the lake is a vulnerable wetland harboring plenty of resident as well as few migratory birds. Four species like Black-headed Ibis (Threskiornis melanocephalus), Darter (Anhinga melanogaster), Black-tailed Godwit (Limosa limosa) and River Tern (Sterna aurantia) were near threatened and have a protected status under the schedule IV of Indian Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. The present study location is also facing tremendous conservation challenges by the impact of anthropogenic alteration of the habitats in and around the lake.

- by Harisha MN
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- Threatened Species, Wetland Birds, Migratory Birds

Populations of migratory birds are usually considered to be limited by conditions in breeding or wintering areas, but some might be limited by conditions encountered on migration. This could occur at stopover sites where competition for restricted food supplies can reduce subsequent survival or breeding success, or during the flights themselves, when adverse weather can occasionally kill large numbers of individuals. Competition for food could act in a density-dependent manner and help to regulate populations, whereas weather effects are more likely to act in a density-independent manner. The evidence for these views is explored in this paper. When preparing for migration, birds must normally obtain more food per day than usual, in order to accumulate the body reserves that fuel their flights. Birds often concentrate in large numbers at particular stopover sites, where food can become scarce, thus affecting migratory performance. Rates of weight gain, departure weights, and stopover durations often correlate with food supplies at stopover sites, sometimes influencing the subsequent survival and reproductive success of individuals, which can in turn affect subsequent breeding numbers. Many studies have provided evidence for interference and depletion competition at stopover sites, relatively few for migration conditions influencing the subsequent breeding or survival of individuals, and even fewer for effects on subsequent breeding numbers. Migrants in flight occasionally suffer substantial mortality in storms, especially over water, sometimes involving many thousands of birds at a time. Other mass mortalities have resulted from atypical 'winter-like' weather, occurring soon after the arrival of summer migrants in their breeding areas or just before their departure in autumn. Again, many thousands of birds at a time have been killed in such incidents, causing reductions of 30-90% in local breeding densities. In some bird species, migration-related events can at times have substantial effects on the year-to-year changes in breeding population levels. Nonetheless, the difficulties involved in investigating migrating birds at different points on their migration routes have so far limited the number of studies on the influence of events during migration periods on population levels.

- by Ian Newton
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- Zoology, Ornithology, Biology, Food supply

A Sergio, simply the best J. Peñuelas revisó una primera versión del capítulo 5, aportando valiosos comentarios y sugerencias, y V. Kosarev me indicó donde encontrar los datos climáticos que buscaba. También doy gracias a todos aquellos autores que han tenido la deferencia de enviarme sus publicaciones, con especial mención a T.H. Sparks y Y. Yom-Tov por su interés en mi labor. Acabo estos agradecimientos acordándome también de los referees, aunque en esta ocasión para bien, porque gracias a los comentarios de algunos de ellos he aprendido mucho a la par que me han ayudado a mejorar los trabajos.

- by Oscar Gordo
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- Climate Change, Phenology, Global change, Citizen Science

There were 80 bird species, belonging to 18 families, for a total of 75,231 individuals. The censuses were carried out in 49 sites grouped in 22 wetlands throughout the country, covering an area of 14,289 ha sampled. The Anatidae family had the highest number of specimens with Blue-winged Teal, Anas discors (11,044), Black-bellied Whistling-duck, Dendrocygna autumnalis (8,949), Northern Shoveler, Anas clypeata (5,133), American Wigeon, Anas americana (3,775), Lesser Scaup, Aythya affinis (2,177) and Northem Pintail, Anas acuta (2,096). The Neotropic Cormorant (Phalacrocorax brasilianus) was the most abundant specie of the Census with 12,736 individuals. Shorebirds with high numbers of individuals were: Western Sandpiper, Calidris mauri (3,991), Least Sandpiper, C. minutilla (3,948) and Semipalmated Plover, Charadrius semipalmatus (2,089). The results by site, indicate the significant importance at the national level of the Laguna El Jocotal, Laguna de Olomega, Embalse Cerron Grande and the Bay of La Union. 44 species are migratory, 17 species are resident. Two species are passers-by Wilson's Phalarope, Steganopus tricolor and Franklyn’s Gull Leucophaeus pipixcan, and one species has an undetermined status: Southern Lapwing (Vanellus chilensis). On the other hand, there are 16 migratory species that also have resident populations, being adjudged to them both categories: resident and migratory. The first occurrence is recorded by Ruddy Crake (Laterallus ruber), Mangrove Rail (Rallus longirostris), Sora (Porzana carolina) and Wilson’s Snipe (Gallinago delicata) in the Central America Aquatic Bird Census in El Salvador. The results of the Census have contributed to a better understanding of the conservation status of waterbirds in the country and to better define their status as resident, migratory or transient species. Twenty-one bird watchers participated.

- by Nestor Herrera
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- Ornithology, Migration Studies, El Salvador, Birds

This study was carried out to assess the status and conservation issues of migratory water birds in Komaranahalli Kere, a lake in Malebennur, Harihar Taluk, Davanagere District from November 2012 to October 2013. The dominant family was Ardeidae represented by 10 species, followed by the Scolopacidae with seven species. The families with lowest representations of one species were Podicipididae, Anhingidae, Rostratulidae and Recurvirostridae. The study revealed that the lake harbors many resident and a few migratory bird species. Among the species recorded five species namely the Black-headed Ibis Threskiornis melanocephalus, Oriental Darter Anhinga melanogaster, Black-tailed Godwit Limosa limosa, Painted Stork Mycteria leucocephala and River Tern Sterna aurantia are Near Threatened. The present study location is also facing tremendous conservation challenges by the impact of anthropogenic alteration of the habitats in and around the lake. Though the lake is highly disturbed, it still provides some potential habitats for a few migratory and several resident water bird species.

- by Harisha MN
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- Biodiversity Conservation, Migratory Birds, Endangered birds

Previous studies have shown that shade trees in cacao and coffee are important habitats for inter-American migratory birds. A survey of 21 cacao farmers along the northern, central, and southern Pacific Coast of Ecuador found that shade trees are associated with unirrigated, traditional cacao varieties and low levels of chemical inputs. Farmers stressed the importance of shade for managing soil moisture and soil fertility, and for managing some weeds and diseases. Most of the shade trees were not wild forest trees, but had been planted and protected by the farm families. Many other trees are intercropped with cacao for economic reasons, not related to shade. Chocolate manufacturers, consumers, and environmental activists can encourage farmers to maintain shade canopies by paying a premium for the traditional, shade-loving, highquality aromatic cocoa varieties.

- by Eric Boa
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- Human Ecology, Soil Fertility, Migratory Birds, Pacific Coast

The present study aims to classify the native and migrant bird species recorded during the summer season in Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary of Karnataka State. Bird survey was conducted during the summer season in the month of March, April and May inside Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary (RBS), located on the bank of river Cauvery. Readings were recorded on every weekend, during Saturday and Sunday of the summer season. The birds were recorded during morning from 06:00AM
to 09:00 AM, and at the evening from 04:00 PM to 06:00 PM using belt transect method. Birds were classified into native and migrant species based on direct observations. Although RBS is having a specific percentage of nested native bird species, there was almost a significant percentage of migrant bird species were recorded during the study. Total numbers of 2890 birds were recorded during the study which belongs to 84 different species and majority of them were native and relatively good percentage of migrant species were observed. More number of aquatic birds was recorded from the migrant bird species group. The study revealed that relatively good percentage of migratory bird species nests in RBS during summer season. Birds require explicit natural assets for generation and for different exercises for their survival. Among both transient and local or non-transitory species alike, satisfactory nourishment for the youthful has all the earmarks of being essential in figuring out where, just as when, a species will breed. Also, study shows that RBS is a preferred habitat for migratory birds during summer season.

- by Dr Nandagopal Paramesh and +1
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- Ornithology, Ecosystems Ecology, Karnataka, Bird Migration

Northern Yukon cliff-top eolian deposits are indicators of past climates and environments. The deposits are located along the Ramparts of the Porcupine River, near the international boundary. These eolian deposits resulted from southwest wind regimes that operated at about 14,860 BP, and more certainly at 11,640-8200 BP and from 4600 BP to present. Palynological analysis indicates that these three periods were marked by different vegetation covers: the earliest one being dominated with Cyperaceae, the intermediate one by Shepherdia canadiensis, and the most recent one by spruce (Picea). Molluscs are particularly numerous and diversified, which suggests that the cliff-top deposits were important refuges for these animals. Molluscan assemblages indicate that the climate was wetter at about 14,860 BP than between 11,640 BP and 8200 BP. The xeric regime that marked the latter period is also indicated by gypsum concretions. It is suggested that the molluscs could have been introduced by migratory birds that, in turn, would also have been able to use the snail shells from the eolian deposits as an important dietary element. It is also suggested that the molluscs are relicts of endemic fauna. r

- by B. Lauriol
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- Archaeology, Geology, Quaternary, Late Pleistocene

- by Mark Rains
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- Environmental Engineering, Civil Engineering, Science Policy, Energy

For the epic journey of autumn migration, long-distance migratory birds use innate and learned information and follow strict schedules imposed by genetic and epigenetic mechanisms, the details of which remain largely unknown. In addition, bird migration requires integrated action of different multisensory systems for learning and memory, and the hippocampus appears to be the integration center for this task. In previous studies we found that contrasting long-distance migratory flights differentially affected the morphological complexity of two types of hippocampus astrocytes. Recently, a significant association was found between the latitude of the reproductive site and the size of the ADCYAP1 allele in long distance migratory birds. We tested for correlations between astrocyte morphological complexity, migratory distances, and size of the ADCYAP1 allele in three long-distance migrant species of shorebird and one non-migrant. Significant differences among species were found in the number and morphological complexity of the astrocytes, as well as in the size of the microsatellites of the ADCYAP1 gene. We found significant associations between the size of the ADCYAP1 microsatellites, the migratory distances, and the degree of morphological complexity of the astrocytes. We suggest that associations between astrocyte number and morphological complexity, ADCYAP1 microsatellite size, and migratory behavior may be part of the adaptive response to the migratory process of shorebirds.

- by cintya castro and +1
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- Migration, Microsatellites, Migratory Birds, Migratory Shorebirds

The role of migrating wild birds in transmitting diseases of poultry or zoonoses is a contentious issue as the researchers and naturalists stands divided regarding their capability to disperse pathogens over continents. Recently, migratory birds got world wide attention during the bird flu outbreaks, as they were found capable to disseminate the deadly H5N1 avian influenza (bird flu) virus, without themselves getting affected. However, the death of migratory birds due to H5N1, reported from Asia, has fuelled anxiety and concern over the whole issue. Apart from avian influenza, migratory birds are also thought to play role in the transmission of avian viruses like Newcastle disease virus, avian pneumovirus and duck plague virus. Similarly, bacterial pathogens like Chlamydophila psittaci and Pasteurella multocida can be transmitted to domestic poultry via migratory birds. They are also known to spread West Nile virus, equine encephalitis virus, Borrelia burgdorferi and enteropathogens like Campylobacter and Salmonella, which could affect animals as will as human beings. To prevent such etiological agents from entering poultry premises, strict biosecurity and constant surveillance are of paramount importance. Hence, in the scenario of migratory birds contributing significantly to the global spread of infectious diseases, a better understanding of their role in the disease epidemiology has to be gained by implementing superior surveillance and tracking strategies.

- by Mahesh mahendran
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- Poultry Science, Infectious Disease, Avian Influenza, Borrelia burgdorferi

Article impact statement: Migratory waterbird and landbird conservation in the East Asian-Australasian Flyway is a challenge, but the Bonn Convention can help.

- by Anuj Jain and +1
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- Migratory Birds