Breeding Adaptations in Birds at Extreme High Latitude (SGER)

本研究旨在研究在北极高海拔的极端条件下繁殖的鸟类的激素行为适应，以最大限度地提高生存和繁殖的成功率。重点将是一种典型的高纬度北极海鸟，Dovekie (Alle Alle)，以及两种典型的北极雀形目，拉普兰长刺鸟（Calcarius lapponicus）和雪猎鸟（Plectrophenax nivalis）。将研究睾酮的时间模式、繁殖条件和繁殖成功，以及肾上腺皮质对环境应激的反应。将在格陵兰北部利用图勒空军基地作为后勤集结区进行实地研究。这将是该区域首次使用这些技术和后勤能力进行研究。由于这些技术本身就存在风险，而且后勤要求非常高，因此这些pi选择在探索性研究小额赠款（SGER）计划的指导下提交一份范围有限的提案。

This study proposes to examine the hormone-behavior adaptations that maximize survival and reproductive success in birds breeding in the extreme conditions of the high Arctic. The focus will be on a typical high Arctic seabird, the Dovekie (Alle alle), and two typical arctic passerines, the Lapland Longspur (Calcarius lapponicus) and Snow Bunting (Plectrophenax nivalis). Temporal patterns of testosterone, breeding condition, and reproductive success will be studied, as well as adrenocortical responses to environmental stress. Field studies will be conducted in northern Greenland using Thule AFB as a logistical staging area. This will be the first study in the region using these techniques and and logistical capabilities. Because these techniques are inherently risky and the logistical demands are extreme, the PIs have chosen to submit a proposal of limited scope under the guidelines of the Small Grants for Exploratory Research (SGER) program.