Plasticity in laying dates of Canada Geese in response to spring phenology

摘要: Observed phenological changes can be explained either by individual phenotypic plasticity or evolutionary changes, but there is more evidence pointing towards to explain the mechanism behind in bird phenology. However, most studies on phenology have been conducted insectivorous species for which breeding closely tied temperature and insect emergence. In this study, we examined consequences of climatic conditions nesting temperate Canada Geese Branta canadensis maxima, rely a continuous food supply, during 14-year period (2003–16). We determined whether laying dates were plastically adjusted spring environmental conditions, adjustment resulted date advancement. further estimated strength shape selection acting timing, looking at effect relative number young successfully hatched nest. found that their maximum (and not precipitation ice break-up), resulting 9-day advancement population period. Laying was also moderately repeatable (r = 0.23) subject directional selection, stabilizing negligible. thus demonstrate how adjust temperature, may beneficial success. Evolutionary change related climate change, however, still possible.