Timing of pairing in Harlequin Ducks : interaction of spacing behaviour, time budgets, and the influx of herring spawn

摘要: This thesis had two major objectives. The first was to test predictions of previous and new theories explain variation in the timing pair formation waterfowl by investigating how several aspects winter ecology Harlequin Ducks, including distribution spacing behaviour, time-activity budgets, use herring spawn, may be related process mate choice formation. second identify address some gaps our knowledge demography Ducks that currently handicap effective conservation action. Previous theory account for pairing, primarily considered phenotypic, social, ecological factors affect male costs, poorly predicted pairing behaviour other waterfowl. Female invested considerable time energy into selecting a mate, decisions females about much allocate appeared main factor controlling pairing. Those were affected age, experience, required activities due seasonal differences day-length food availability, group availability likely costs sampling turn also availability. Spacing supported hypothesis unpaired birds will show adaptive changes their reduce sampling. Aggregating at spawning sites March provided with both direct nutritional benefits indirect budgets behaviour. Male female interests necessarily interacted comprehensive predict species requires consideration benefits, conflicts interest among individuals engaged decisions. making mate-choice decisions, interactions conditions process, integrate requirements life history are essential consider order understand events. To R. Wayne Campbell