Energetics of incubation in free-living Orange-breasted Sunbirds in South Africa

Article Abstract:

The field metabolic rate (FMR) and water flux of female Orange-breasted Sunbirds during the incubation phase of reproduction were studied. Female Orange-breasted Sunbirds from the proteaheath vegetation of South Africa were observed and their FMR and incubation behavior are recorded. The birds' basal metabolism rate (BMR) were also derived using the equation of Aschoff and Pohl. Results revealed that female Sunbirds work near maximum capacity during the incubation period as shown by their high FMR/BMR ratio.

Birds

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Lizard burrows provide thermal refugia for larks in the Arabian desert

Article Abstract:

It is commonly thought that desert birds are more exposed to heat and aridity than their mammalian counterparts which are able to escape the harsh conditions by burrowing. A new study investigates the use of lizard burrows by Bar-tailed Desert Larks, Dunn's Larks, Hoopoe Larks and Black-crowned Finch Larks in the Arabian desert. It is shown that larks can reduce their water loss by up to 81% by sheltering in burrows during the hottest parts of the day.

Natural history, Burrowing animals, Deserts, Larks, Eastern Desert (Egypt)

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Field metabolism and water flux of Carolina Chickadees during breeding and nonbreeding seasons: a test of the "peak-demand" and "reallocation" hypotheses

Article Abstract:

Research describing seasonal energy expenditure of Carolina Chickadees (Poecile carolinensis) is presented. The analysis demonstrates that energy expenditure is greatest during the non-breeding season perhaps due to severe winter weather.

Case studies, Observations, Ornithological research, Chickadees

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