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Flyway connectivity and exchange primarily driven by moult migration in geese
A Kölzsch1,2,3, G J D M Müskens4, P Szinai5,6
11Department of Migration and Immuno-Ecology, Max Planck Institute for Ornithology, Am Obstberg 1, 78315 Radolfzell, Germany.
Movement Ecology
|February 9, 2019
Summary
Failed or non-breeding geese engage in long-distance moult migration, leading to population mixing outside of traditional breeding or wintering sites. This highlights the importance of considering moult migration for effective conservation of migratory birds.
Area of Science:
- Ornithology
- Ecology
- Conservation Biology
Background:
- Delineating populations and understanding migratory connectivity is crucial for managing species impacted by human activities.
- Traditional studies focus on breeding or wintering sites, neglecting the full annual cycle for population mixing analysis.
- This study examines the entire annual cycle to identify key stages and locations for population mixing in an Arctic migrant.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine important stages and sites for population mixing in Arctic migratory geese.
- To quantify migratory connectivity between the North Sea and Pannonic populations of the Western Palearctic greater white-fronted goose.
- To assess the role of moult migration in facilitating population exchange.
Main Methods:
- Utilized 91 high-resolution GPS tracks of Western Palearctic greater white-fronted geese (Anser A. albifrons).
- Analyzed overlap areas using dynamic Brownian bridges for stopover, nesting, and moulting sites.
- Identified population overlap and potential exchange during different annual cycle stages.
Main Results:
- Population utilization areas showed limited overlap during spring/autumn migration but significant overlap during moult.
- Non-breeders and failed breeders from the North Sea population intermixed with the Pannonic population in the Pyasina delta.
- Observed geese switching flyways during moult, with evidence suggesting long-term or permanent exchange.
Conclusions:
- Long-distance moult migration of failed or non-breeders is a key driver of population overlap and exchange.
- Population exchange and migratory connectivity occur outside of classically studied wintering or breeding sites.
- Conservation and management strategies for greater white-fronted geese and other waterfowl must incorporate moult migration dynamics.
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