Behavioral, ecological and morphological correlates of foraging for arthropods by the hummingbirds of a tropical wet forest

Article Abstract:

The bill formation of hermit and non-hermit hummingbirds, evolved for effective nectar extraction, regulates the foraging strategy and choice of their arthropod prey. The amount of insects consumed and hover-gleaning are proportionate to the shape of their wings and beaks. Non-hermits and hermits differ in the foraging levels for nectar and arthropods. The tactics of flower exploitation changes from habitat to habitat in terms of flower presence but the proportion and distribution of foraging does not change with the habitat. The impact of arthropods on hummingbirds' breeding is discussed.

Birds, Bird breeding

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Habitat separation and anthropod resource use in three Lesser Antillean hummingbirds

Article Abstract:

Habitat and resource partitioning were examined among the Antillean Crested Hummingbird, Green-throated Carib and Purple-throated Carib through studies of their habitat and food resource utilization. The three hummingbird species fed mostly on anthropods and followed a trapliner-type of feeding. Significant differences were observed for habitat use among the three species and for feeding substrates between the Green-throated Carib and the two other species. They did not differ greatly, however, with respect to foraging heights and feeding location on plant canopy.

Research, Natural history, Habitat partitioning (Biology), Habitat partitioning (Ecology), Lesser Antilles, Resource partitioning (Ecology)

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Variable expression of sexually mosaic plumage in female Lesser Kestrels

Article Abstract:

The occurrence of both male and female type of plumages in female Lesser Kestrels is uncommon and unexplained by exclusive genetic control. Differential estrogen or testosterone loads between years may explain this phenomenon. One female Lesser Kestrels with sexually mosaic plumage produces broods that are not a result of polygyny. Another female has been seen with a mate and shows signs of egg-laying.

Sexual behavior, Observations, Kestrels, Color of birds, Bird coloration

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