Breeding of variable oystercatchers (Haematopus unicolor) at Kaikoura Peninsula, South Island, New Zealand | Notornis and Birds New Zealand

[摘要] The nesting of variable oystercatchers (Haematopus unicolor) on the Kaikoura Peninsula was studied at 6 sites over 8 years. Only in 1 year were birds known to have laid eggs at all 6 sites and only at 2 sites was nesting observed every year. Loss of nests often resulted in re-nesting and at 1 site birds made 4 attempts in 1 season. Over the 8 years, 117 eggs were found in 53 nesting attempts between mid-Oct and late Jan. The average size of 114 eggs was 58.2 x 40.6 mm. Thirty of 53 nesting attempts were completed and averaged 2.4 eggs/clutch (range 1

[学科分类] 动物科学

[关键词] breeding success;clutch size;egg size;Haematopus unicolor;Kaikoura Peninsula;variable oystercatcher