How Much Variation in the Molt Duration of Passerines Can Be Explained By the Growth Rate of Tail Feathers

摘要: ABSTRACT. In birds, molt duration is an important trait that can affect plumage functionality and, consequently, the fitness of individuals. However, knowledge about factors variation in speed sparse, mostly because methodological difficulties studying avian molt. We used a ptilochronology-based approach to estimate rate at which tail feathers were produced during shed light on relationship between and feather growth rate. For purpose, we three data sets. First, tested whether average durations 22 passerine species correlated with mean rates their feathers, using both conventional phylogenetically corrected statistical procedures. Second, explored this same association among captive Great Tits (Parus major). And third, took advantage biannual complete Willow Warblers (Phylloscopus trochilus) examine synthesized short summer grew fast...