Original Articles

Biometrics, possible breeding origins and migration routes of South African Grey Plovers, Pluvialis squatarola

Published in: Ostrich: Journal of African Ornithology
Volume 72 , issue 3-4 , 2001 , pages: 140–144

DOI: 10.2989/00306520109485305

Author(s): L. Serra , D.A. Whitelaw , A.J. Tree , L.G. Underhill

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Abstract

Data on 355 Grey Plovers, Pluvialis squatarola, ringed in South Africa in 1971–1997 were analysed. Biometrics could not identify well-defined origins in the Siberian breeding grounds, but suggested the presence of birds from east of the Gydan Peninsula. Comparisons with populations spending the non-breeding period elsewhere did not allow a clear definition of the flyways used, although ringing recoveries indicated a migration route crossing the Mediterranean/Black Sea region during both southward and northward movements. First-year birds were on average smaller than adults. Bill length increased during the first year, reaching adult length by June. First-year wing length decreased by 4% before the outermost primary was shed, adult wing length did not change with season.

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