Temporal covariation of egg volume and breeding conditions in the Common Kestrel (Falco tinnunculus) in the Mediterranean region

Costantini, D., Carello, L. and Dell'Omo, G. (2010) Temporal covariation of egg volume and breeding conditions in the Common Kestrel (Falco tinnunculus) in the Mediterranean region. Ornis Fennica, 87(4), pp. 144-152.

Full text not currently available from Enlighten.

Publisher's URL: http://www.ornisfennica.org/pdf/vol87-4/3Costantini.pdf

Abstract

Most studies on variation in egg size in the Common Kestrel (Falco tinnunculus) have been carried out in central and northern Europe, whereas less is known about populations in the Mediterranean basin. We investigated the variation in egg volume in a Mediterranean population of Common Kestrel over a six-year period in relation to clutch size, breeding time, hatching success, and weather conditions. Eggs were generally bigger in larger clutches, and egg volume tended to decrease over the breeding season, but these patterns were not consistent among breeding seasons. Egg volume did not significantly vary in relation to weather conditions and did not predict hatching or fledging success. This study showed that (a) the patterns of covariation among laying date, clutch size and egg volume varied inconsistently over multiple years, and (b) egg volume poorly predicted the probabilities of hatching and fledging in the studied population

Item Type:Articles
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Costantini, Dr David
Authors: Costantini, D., Carello, L., and Dell'Omo, G.
College/School:College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Biodiversity, One Health & Veterinary Medicine
Journal Name:Ornis Fennica
ISSN:0030-5685

University Staff: Request a correction | Enlighten Editors: Update this record