This study discusses the breeding biology of the Bufflehead
(Bucephala albeola; Anatidae, Aves), and examines factors operating upon
the species during the breeding season to evaluate their effectiveness
in setting limits to its breeding distribution.
A definition of the breeding habitat utilized by the species
is offered, with special attention being paid to the form and spatial
relationships of the nest-hole. Precise details on nesting are presented
and compared with those of related species. Factors which may affect the
survival of young under varying conditions are examined critically for
correlations with observed mortality.
On the basis of these data it is suggested that climate is of
major importance in limiting the breeding distribution of Bufflehead.
Climate limits the distribution of trees, and thus of nest-sites, while
luxuriant growth of shrubs in regions of high rainfall may limit the
fraction of young reaching the water. Adverse weather may cause mortality
both by causing chilling and by preventing small young from feeding.
It is felt that further studies on waterfowl which involve
relationships between nest-sites and territories might profitably use
this species as a vehicle. / Science, Faculty of / Zoology, Department of / Graduate
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:UBC/oai:circle.library.ubc.ca:2429/41685 |
| Date | January 1960 |
| Creators | Erskine, Anthony John |
| Publisher | University of British Columbia |
| Source Sets | University of British Columbia |
| Language | English |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | Text, Thesis/Dissertation |
| Rights | For non-commercial purposes only, such as research, private study and education. Additional conditions apply, see Terms of Use https://open.library.ubc.ca/terms_of_use. |
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