Title | Breeding biology and nest usage of the verdin in southern New Mexico |
Publication Type | Thesis |
Year of Publication | 1965 |
Authors | Moore DRubal |
Date Published | 1965 |
University | New Mexico State University |
City | Las Cruces, New Mexico |
Thesis Type | M.S. Thesis |
Call Number | 00221 |
Keywords | bird,breeding biology, bird,nest usage, dissertation, dissertations, reproduction,bird, theses, thesis, verdin, breeding biology, verdin, nest usage |
Abstract | A population of verdins on a square-mile of desert were studied between April, 1964, and August, 1965. Details of the reproductive cycle and reproductive success are give. An average of 13 breeding pairs occurred on the area over two seasons. Approximately 41 young fledged in 1965. Single males build display nests that are a part of the courtship pattern. Territories are advertised by a call note and singing starts with encountering prospective mates. Audiospectrographs for two calls and song are shown. Three types of nests and their usage are discussed. Verdins save time and energy in nest construction by choosing familiar nest sites, rebuilding old nests, and reusing nest material. Nests play an important role in the life of verdins, protecting them from harsh weather and predators. |