Breeding Adaptations in Birds at Extreme High Latitude (SGER)

本研究旨在探讨在北极高纬度地区的极端条件下，鸟类繁殖的生存和繁殖成功率最大化的牺牲行为适应。 重点将放在一个典型的高北极海鸟，Dovekie（Alle alle），和两个典型的北极雀形目，拉普兰长刺（Calcarius lapponicus）和雪彩旗（Plectrophenax nivalis）。 睾酮的时间模式，繁殖条件和繁殖成功将被研究，以及肾上腺皮质对环境压力的反应。 将在格陵兰北方利用图勒空军基地作为后勤中转区进行实地研究。 这将是该地区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有风险，而且后勤要求也很高，因此PI选择根据探索性研究小额赠款（SGER）计划的指导方针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.