首页|A parasite reduction conservation intervention does not improve fledging success or most condition metrics for Purple Martins
A parasite reduction conservation intervention does not improve fledging success or most condition metrics for Purple Martins
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NSTL
Oxford Univ Press
Eastern Purple Martins (Prognesubis subis) have an unusually close relationship with humans, as they nest exclusively in man-made nest boxes. Current conservation policy directly promotes further interaction with this species by advocating regular replacement of nest materials during the nestling phase to reduce ectoparasite load and increase nestling fitness. We conducted the first test of the efficacy of this recommendation and found that it was partially effective in reducing parasite abundance, but had no effect on nestling fledging success, body mass, leukocyte count, or triglyceride or uric acid concentration. We found a small but significant increase in nestling hematocrit associated with nest material replacement, implying that parasites may induce nestling anemia. Contrary to our expectations, we also found elevated heterophil/lymphocyte ratios in nestlings with replacements, possibly indicating elevated physiological stress associated with nest replacements. Based on our results, we do not recommend nest material replacements to combat routine parasite infestations.
body conditioncavity nestingconservationectoparasitesPurple Martin
Williams, Heather M.、Dittmar, Katharina、Pagano, Susan Smith
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SUNY Buffalo, Dept Environm & Sustainabil, Buffalo, NY 14214 USA
SUNY Buffalo, Dept Biol Sci, Buffalo, NY USA
Rochester Inst Technol, Thomas H Gosnell Sch Life Sci, Rochester, NY 14623 USA
NSTL
Oxford Univ Press
