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Distribution patterns during winter and fidelity to wintering areas of American black ducks

January 1, 1988
The distribution patterns during winter of American black ducks (Anas rubripes) were compared among age – sex classes using band recovery data. In addition, fidelity to wintering areas was compared between sexes and between coastal and inland wintering sites. We did not find evidence of age- or sex-specific differences in distribution patterns (P > 0.10). Black ducks exhibited a stronger fidelity to coastal wintering areas (P < 0.01), but there were no sex-specific differences (P > 0.30). We believe that the early formation of breeding pairs and possibly predictable food resources may reduce age – sex segregation in distribution patterns during winter. The predictability of food resources in coastal, as opposed to inland, wintering areas is likely responsible for the greater fidelity of black ducks to coastal wintering sites.
Publication Year 1988
Title Distribution patterns during winter and fidelity to wintering areas of American black ducks
DOI 10.1139/z88-221
Authors Duane R. Diefenbach, James D. Nichols, James E. Hines
Publication Type Article
Publication Subtype Journal Article
Series Title Canadian Journal of Zoology
Index ID 5220001
Record Source USGS Publications Warehouse
USGS Organization Patuxent Wildlife Research Center
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