The breeding biology and behaviour of great black-backed gulls (Larus marinus L.) in Newfoundland

Roy, Nicole A. (1986) The breeding biology and behaviour of great black-backed gulls (Larus marinus L.) in Newfoundland. Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

[English] PDF (Migrated (PDF/A Conversion) from original format: (application/pdf)) - Accepted Version Available under License - The author retains copyright ownership and moral rights in this thesis. Neither the thesis nor substantial extracts from it may be printed or otherwise reproduced without the author's permission. Download (16MB) [English] PDF - Accepted Version Available under License - The author retains copyright ownership and moral rights in this thesis. Neither the thesis nor substantial extracts from it may be printed or otherwise reproduced without the author's permission. (Original Version)

Abstract

The application of Game Theory to the study of behaviour has shown that it is possible, in theory, to have stable equilibria with individuals in a population behaving in different ways. In order to test for colony type selection or nesting strategies in this species, breeding success, site tenacity and mate selection should be monitored on a long term basis. An investigation of the reproductive biology and behaviour of Great Black-backed Gulls was undertaken to provide preliminary data to design such project. -- The effects of habitat or colony type selection on reproductive output was assessed in a one year study by comparing the breeding biology and behaviour of Great Black-backed Gulls in two different environments, namely a mono-specific and a mixed-species colony. Many aspects of the breeding biology of Great Black-backed Gulls were similar between colonies but important behavioural differences were observed. -- There is some evidence that colony type selection fits the model of “ideal free distribution (Fretwell and Lucas, 1970) and acts as a breeding strategy in Great Black-backed Gulls. However, energetic studies should be undertaken to assess costs and benefits of the proposed strategies.

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