LE3 .A278 2015

2015

Taylor, Phil

Acadia University

Master of Science

Masters

Biology

Biology

Tracking small migratory birds on their breeding grounds and during migration is challenging. Breeding birds can be cryptic and may disperse long distances from nests, while migrating birds cover large temporal and geographical scales. Here I use an extensive automated digital telemetry array to assess and compare the breeding ground dispersal behaviour of adult and juvenile Ipswich Sparrows (Passerculus sandwichensis princeps) on Sable Island, Nova Scotia, and their subsequent fall migration along the Atlantic seaboard. Adults had low post-breeding, pre-migratory dispersal rates while juveniles made numerous broad scale movements dependent on approaching migration initiation date and time of day. Inexperienced juveniles departed earlier than adults thus relying on innate knowledge. Some juveniles appeared to take a distinctly different route, reducing risk by avoiding crossing the Gulf of Maine. Adults took a more direct route, and all birds appeared to increase the number of stopover events when open water was encountered. This thesis contributes to avian research by filling a gap in knowledge of a significant period in migratory birds life history.

The author retains copyright in this thesis. Any substantial copying or any other actions that exceed fair dealing or other exceptions in the Copyright Act require the permission of the author.

https://scholar.acadiau.ca/islandora/object/theses:358