Zoology - Theses

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Behavioural ecology of the red-capped robin

Dowling, Damian Kimon ( 2004-12)

In this thesis, I describe aspects of the behavioural ecology of the red-capped robin Petroica goodenovii (Petroicidae), relating to its mating system and breeding biology, based on field research during two breeding seasons (2000/01 and 2001/02) in Terrick Terrick National Park (northern Victoria, Australia). Breeding traits of the red-capped robin were typical of many other Australian passerines and included small clutches, long breeding seasons and multiple broods. A comparative analysis within the Petroicidae (members of which are distributed throughout Australasia) revealed that species endemic to Australia had shorter incubation periods, and species from semi-arid and dry woodlands had comparatively longer incubation periods. Red-capped robin abundances within white cypress-pine woodlands of Terrick Terrick National Park were higher than those of nearby eucalypt woodlands, suggesting such pine woodlands provide high quality habitat for red-capped robins. The study site was saturated with robin breeding territories and few territory vacancies were available at any given time. Nestlings that were relatively heavier were more likely to reach independence and disperse. However, rates of juvenile recruitment into the study population were low. Juveniles may be forced to disperse far from their natal territories to establish breeding territories. (For complete abstract open document)