Hummingbirds' nectar concentration preferences at low volume: the importance of time scale
Article Abstract:
The Rufous hummingbirds', Selasphorus rufus, energetics of nectar extraction and preferences fail to account for low nectar sugar concentrations in the flowers they pollinate. At low nectar volume, birds fail to prefer concentrations lower than those they prefer at high-volume feeders. The birds prefer 65% sucrose rather than more dilute solutions. This produces almost maximum energy intake at and above the time scale of foraging bouts.
Publication Name: Animal Behaviour
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0003-3472
Year: 1996
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Learning and remembering of spatial patterns by hummingbirds
Article Abstract:
A study of the ability of hummingbirds to learn and memorize spatial patterns shows that they apply fine and coarse-grained memory to make cognitive maps of the environment and hunt for food. Hummingbirds lack visible correlates of feeder quality, but respond to the distribution of energy in their environment. Spatial memory and other cognitive methods are vital for hummingbird foraging.
Publication Name: Animal Behaviour
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0003-3472
Year: 1995
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Determinants of the physiological colour patterns of juvenile parrotfish, Chlorurus sordidus
Article Abstract:
A study of the different physiological colour patterns (PCPs) of juvenile bullethead parrotfish shows that they may function as anti-predation signals. Field observations of the Chlorurus sordidus at three sites off the coast of Australia show that several variables may interact to influence the PCPs, the most important being body size and schooling behaviour.
Publication Name: Animal Behaviour
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0003-3472
Year: 1997
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