Environmental change and the cost of philopatry: An example in the lesser snow goose
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Authors: E. G. Cooch, R. L. Jefferies, R. F. Rockwell, and F. Cooke
Date: 1993
Journal: Oecologia
Volume: 93
Number: 1
Pages: 128-138
Summary of Methods: Study measured population characteristics and foraging behavior of lesser snow goose (Anser caerulescens caerulescens) at La Perouse Bay, Cape Churchill, Whale River, and Thompson Point along the coast of Manitoba, Canada. Adult and juvenile birds were monitored annually to determine size, sex ratio, and juvenile survival at traditional and non-traditional breeding grounds. Vegetation sampling was conducted in late July of 1991 by collecting salt marsh turf samples and assessing plant biomass. Adjacent fresh water sedge meadows were sampled to determine number of grazed shoots.
Article Summary / Main Points: There was less forage at the La Perouse Bay than the other salt marshes. Goslings raised at La Perouse Bay were smaller, lighter and have lower survival rates than those from parents that migrated elsewhere. The natural tendency of these birds to continue breeding at La Perouse Bay may further degrade the resources there and in time harm the snow goose population.
Vegetation Types: Riparian and Wetlands
MLRA Ecoregions: Not Applicable
Agrovoc Control Words: Riparian zones Grazing Watersheds
Article Review Type: Refereed
Article Type: Experimental Research
Keywords: lesser snow geese, anser caerulescens caerulescens, body size, feeding area, salt marshes, overgrazing, environmental degradation
Annotation: This research primarily focused on wildlife population dynamics with minimal grazing and vegetation data. Results from this study have very limited applicability in most rangeland grazing situations.
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