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Present address: Wildlife Biology Program, School of Forestry, University of Montana, Missoula, MT 59812, USA.
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Age-specific breeding probability in black brant: effects of population density
Article first published online: 20 DEC 2001
DOI: 10.1046/j.0021-8790.2001.00535.x
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How to Cite
Sedinger, J. S., Lindberg, M. S. and Chelgren, N. D. (2001), Age-specific breeding probability in black brant: effects of population density. Journal of Animal Ecology, 70: 798–807. doi: 10.1046/j.0021-8790.2001.00535.x
Publication History
- Issue published online: 20 DEC 2001
- Article first published online: 20 DEC 2001
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Keywords:
- Alaska;
- Branta bernicla nigricans;
- breeding probability;
- capture–recapture;
- density dependence;
- life-history;
- Pollock’s robust design;
- reproduction;
- temporary emigration
Summary
- 1We estimated age-specific probability of breeding for black brant (Branta bernicla nigricans Lawrence) (hereafter brant) at the Tutakoke River Colony, Alaska, during a series of years in which local breeding density and juvenile mortality both increased. We use these analyses to examine demographic responses to increased population density.
- 2Estimates of breeding probability were based on Kendall & Nichols (1995) full-likelihood modification of Pollock’s (1982) robust design applied to observations of uniquely colour-banded brant.
- 3Breeding probability varied with female age but not across years, indicating lack of response to increased population density. Annual probability of breeding increased from 0·67 ± 0·042 for 2-year-old females to 0·90 ± 0·024 for females 5 years old or older.
- 4Annual breeding probability of males ≥ 5 years old was 0·78 ± 0·03. Lower breeding probability of males compared to females probably reflects dispersal of males whose mates died.
- 5Lower juvenile survival appears to be a general response to increased density in large herbivorous birds and mammals, while changes in adult survival and reproductive investment may be more variable.