Document Type

Article

Publication Version

Version of Record

Publication Date

2016

Keywords

Aster models, breeding dispersal, carry-over effects, deuterium, long-distance dispersal, natal dispersal, seasonal interactions

Abstract

Long- distance breeding and natal dispersal play central roles in many ecological and evolutionary processes, including gene flow, population dynamics, range expansion, and individual responses to fluctuating biotic and abiotic conditions. However, the relative contribution of long- distance dispersal to these processes depends on the ability of dispersing individuals to successfully reproduce in their new environment. Unfortunately, due to the difficulties associated with tracking dispersal in the field, relatively little is known about its reproductive consequences. Furthermore, because reproductive success is influenced by a variety of processes, disentangling the influence of each of these processes is critical to understanding the direct consequences of dispersal. In this study, we used stable hydrogen and carbon isotopes to estimate long- distance dispersal and winter territory quality in a migratory bird, the American Redstart (Setophaga ruticilla). We then applied Aster life-history models to quantify the strength of influence of these factors on apparent reproductive success. We found no evidence that male or female reproductive success was lower for long- distance dispersers relative to non- dispersing individuals. In contrast, carry- over effects from the winter season did influence male, but not female, reproductive success. Use of Aster models further revealed that for adult males, winter territory quality influenced the number of offspring produced whereas for yearling males, high- quality winter territories were associated with higher mating and nesting success. These results suggest that although long- distance natal and breeding dispersal carry no immediate reproductive cost for American Redstarts, reproductive success in this species may ultimately be limited by the quality of winter habitat.

Publication Title

Ecology

Volume

97

Issue

5

First Page

1218

Last Page

1227

Pages

10

Format

application/pdf

Language

en

DOI of Published Version

10.1890/15-1259.1

Publisher

Ecological Society of America

Rights

Copyright by the Ecological Society of America

Comments

This work was published in Ecology 97(5), 2016, pp.1218-1227. DOI:10.1890/15-1259.1
Posted with permission.

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