Satellite tracking on giant petrels macronectes spp - interspecific and intersexual differences in foraging strategies during incubation

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Project objective

Research objectives and content The main goal of this project is the study of ecological segregation in foraging strategies as well as theprocesses of allocation during the incubation period of the two sibling species of Giant Petrel Macronectes halli and M.giganteus. In addition, intersexual differences related to size dimorphism and the influence ofbreeding experience will be studied. Data will be collected during October and November at South Georgia (UK), by combination of platform transmitter terminals (PTTs) with stomach temperature sensors and foot-attached water temperature loggers. I expect to collect information on flight speed, feeding patternsand at-sea activity budgets to performe detailed comparisons of foraging tactics and strategies and the development of cost-benefit models of foraging performance. Training content (objective, benefit and expected impact) The training objective is to extend the skills of the candidate in handling the PTTs and data loggers. the stage will provide the candidate the opportunity to learn how analyze such data, including the use of newly developed specific software. The candidate expects to apply this technique on a rare Mediterranean seabird the Audouin's Gull, in Spain, at the end of this collaboration. The candidate will lead the part involving satellite tracking of an already running project in the University of Barcelona.

Original text from CORDIS.

Participants

• NATURAL ENVIRONMENT RESEARCH COUNCIL · SWINDONCoordinatorUnited Kingdom

Links

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