Preferences of cedar waxwings in the laboratory for fruit species, colour and size: A comparison with field observations

摘要: Abstract Fruit preferences of cedar waxwings, Bombycilla cedrorum , in the laboratory were compared with field to identify fruit characteristics that influence choice by avian dispersers. Waxwings ate 12 13 species fruits offered individually tests, but only eight same species. When given a 10 simultaneously, waxwings showed strong preference for small or red. Preferences not correlated morphological nutritional fruits. food differed colour, initially preferred red over blue, yellow and green. In later was less marked. tests size preference, pieces (6 mm) medium (9 mm), those large (12 mm). Sizes approximately 6·0–7·5 mm. Thus, can discern differences items they have definite preferences. The lack complete agreement between suggests factors important controlled (e.g. abundance, location) override certain However, some characteristics, particularly size, consistently influential field.