LE3 .A278 1999

1999

Shutler, Dave

Acadia University

Master of Science

Masters

Biology

Biology

I mist-netted southbound migrating landbirds on Bon Portage Island, Nova Scotia, to determine the importance of the island in these birds' migration. I specifically asked: (a) are the numbers of migrants that come to Bon Portage in the fall related to wind direction? (b) can any species deposit fat on the island? and (c) does wind direction influence either the abundance or fat loads of individual species in the fall? I tested for a relationship between wind direction and the total capture rate of all migrants combined. I next tested whether individual species can deposit fat on the island. Finally, I tested if wind direction had an effect on either the capture rates or the fat reserves (determined by weights and fat scores) for species for which there were adequate data: Myrtle Warblers, Blackpoll Warblers, and Red-eyed Vireos. I conclude that most birds initially come to Bon Portage Island simply because of its location on the southern end of the province; however once there, some species, such as Myrtle Warblers, are nonetheless able to stay and deposit small amounts of fat. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)

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