Project
Factors determining Red-billed Tropicbird population success on small Caribbean islands
Seabirds are decreasing worldwide and are now among the most threatened groups, with approximately 80% of 346 species in decline. Seabirds exhibit typical and extreme life history traits: long lifespans, low fecundity, and high survival, which makes them susceptible to threats that increase adult mortality.
Motivation
These threats can lead to demographic declines and ultimately mortality of whole island populations. This can give rise to 1) reduced reproductive success resulting in ageing of the bird population; 2) increased exposure to threats such as invasive vertebrates as a consequence of behavioral traits; 3) changes in foraging patterns; and 4) reduced genetic diversity and an increase in genetic stochasticity, such as inbreeding and population bottlenecks. This study contributes to overall knowledge of Red-billed Tropicbird (Phaeton aethereus mesonauta) ecology in the Caribbean. Currently, only basic information exists from a small number of locations. This research will help conservationalists and other stakeholders assess the relevance and effectiveness of Important Bird Areas and Marine Protected Areas in relation to trophicbird populations
Aims and objectives
The aim of this study is to understand the factors that determine tropicbird population success on small Caribbean islands. Diet and satellite telemetry studies can reveal critical information about overall ecosystem health. The genetic structure and variation component will provide key information into the long-term viability of tropicbird populations on small islands.
Method
Specifically, this research will determine which factor(s) influence the daily survival rates of tropicbird eggs and chicks on St. Eustatius by modelling next survival in combination with environmental variables. Generalized linear models will allow us to test the influence of breeding success, breeding failure, clutch type and season on nest mate and cavity fidelity of tropicbirds on St. Eustatius and Saba. GPS data will allow us to examine the behavior of traveling and foraging tropicbirds in relation to oceanographic variables. Finally, DNA analysis will allow us to determine the genetic structure of tropicbirds on small Caribbean islands, compared with large populations from Mexico.