The effect of weather on the decision to migrate from stopover sites by autumn-migrating ducks.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Previous investigations of autumn-migrating ducks have reported weak connections between weather conditions and the decision to migrate from stopover sites. We leveraged relatively new weather surveillance radar technology to remotely detect departures of discrete groups of various species of migratory dabbling ducks (Anatidae) in autumn to more directly assess the effect of specific weather conditions on departure from discrete stopover sites.

Methods

Using radar data collected over fifteen years (1995-2009), we documented a consistent phenomenon where a single, identifiable group departed from our study area on 30% of days during the autumn study period, and no ducks departed on the other days. We gathered weather variables from nearby stations and used t

SUBMITTER: O'Neal BJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6257954 | biostudies-literature | 2018

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature