Assessing Body Condition in Birds

摘要: Important biological concepts typically have many definitions. Body condition is no exception; it a multi-level phenomenon that can be defined either conceptually or operationally. Although at this time there clear consensus on the definition for body condition, conceptually, term in cases describes degree to which an organism’s physiological state influences its performance (i.e., production, activity, response environmental conditions). Operational definitions are based some aspect of composition (e.g., levels nutrient stores indirect indicators such levels). Despite these complexities, numerous published studies documented effect bird’s nutritional status Darwinian fitness. The primary goals chapter describe available methods assessing evaluate their accuracy and utility, illustrate how been applied, clarify they satisfy operational conceptual condition. result will provide primer researchers interested obtaining estimates, as well those wishing improve upon existing methods.