Breeding Adaptations in Birds at Extreme High Latitude (SGER)

这项研究建议研究在北极高海拔地区的极端条件下，在鸟类繁殖中最大限度地提高生存和繁殖成功的激素行为适应。重点将放在一种典型的北极高空海鸟--鸽子(Alle Alle)，以及两种典型的北极雀形目鸟类--拉普兰长距鸟(Calcarius Lapponicus)和雪鸟(Plectrohenax Nivalis)上。将研究睾丸激素、繁殖条件和生殖成功的时间模式，以及肾上腺皮质对环境压力的反应。将在格陵兰北部进行实地研究，使用图勒空军基地作为后勤集结地。这将是该地区使用这些技术和后勤能力进行的第一次研究。由于这些技术本身就有风险，而且对后勤的要求也是极端的，所以私人投资机构选择在探索性研究小额拨款(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.