|
|
Year-round specialists? Habitat niches of migratory birds on breeding and non-breeding grounds
Zálišová, Jaromíra ; Procházka, Petr (advisor) ; Reif, Jiří (referee)
Migratory birds undertake challenging journeys over vast distances each year to cope with seasonality in their environment and to exploit peaks in seasonal resources. The environments in which they are found in these geographically distinct regions over the course of the annual cycle vary considerably, forcing them to cope with a wide range of conditions. By examining whether migratory birds are year-round specialists that follow their niche or generalists that inhabit a broader range of habitats, we can better understand their ecology and the conservation implications associated with global change. However, our knowledge of habitat selection across seasons is still limited. This thesis aimed to explore and evaluate, through a literature review, existing knowledge on habitat selection by migratory bird species on breeding and wintering grounds. Emphasis was placed on the mechanisms influencing habitat selection, including geographical and anthropogenic influences, as well as to clarify the ecological requirements and potential specialization of migratory birds during their annual cycle. The current literature shows that migratory birds are most likely less opportunistic than previously thought, but a comprehensive analysis of data on habitat use by individual species is still missing and I would...
|
guest ::
