The life cycle and number dynamics of the urban mallard population ( Anas platyrhynchos , Anseriformes, Aves) in Moscow

摘要: The life cycle of the urban mallard (Anas platyrhynchos L.) population Moscow was monitored from 1998 to 2015. numbers wintering mallards and females with broods, as well number ducklings in each brood, were counted 150 ponds 23 rivers Moscow. countdown method based on age chicks used determine date first laid eggs. During study period, crossing average daily air temperature 0°C threshold moved end March or beginning April February, recent years, mid-February (r =–0.44, p = 0.06, n 18). breeding over same period rose 250 900 individuals, whereas inner water bodies increased 3.8 21.5 thousand. started nesting significantly earlier =–0.60, r 0.008, In years an early onset spring, coincided that birds inhabiting southern regions Russia. by almost 40% (Z 2.22, р 0.02) brood size, 6% 2.04, 0.04). spring accounted for 92.3% variance dates start ovipositin (p < 0.01) 55.1% 0.01). relative May broods grew July decreased. Over these 18 increasing, size decreased =–0.46, 0.05, 18) egg-laying 0.56, total duration season city exceeds different geographical points nature.