Ovulation Order and Bird Viability
Author Information
Author(s): Keith W. Sockman
Primary Institution: University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill
Hypothesis
Does ovulation order mediate a trade-off between pre-hatching and post-hatching viability in Lincoln's sparrows?
Conclusion
The study found that ovulation order affects both pre-hatching and post-hatching viability, suggesting a trade-off that should be considered in future research.
Supporting Evidence
- First-laid eggs had lower hatching rates than later-laid eggs.
- Fledging probability decreased with increasing laying order.
- Maternal investment in egg size did not vary significantly with laying order.
Takeaway
Birds that hatch first are more likely to survive, but the first eggs laid are less likely to hatch, showing a balance between early and late eggs.
Methodology
The study involved observing nests of Lincoln's sparrows, measuring egg and nestling viability based on laying and hatching order.
Potential Biases
Potential biases due to the hierarchical structure of the data and the observational nature of the study.
Limitations
Sample sizes varied greatly, leading to incomplete data for some broods.
Participant Demographics
Wild, free-living Lincoln's sparrows in Colorado.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.048
Confidence Interval
0.278±0.094
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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