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Some considerations in modeling the mallard life cycle

By: , and 
Edited by: Milton W. Weller

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Abstract

We outline a population model proposed to accommodate the full life cycle of the mallard (Anas platyrhynchos}. Events during the breeding season are better understood than events at other times of the year, but recent findings suggest the importance of phenomena away from the breeding grounds. Several processes are discussed relative to mallard population dynamics. Compensatory mortality is a poorly understood concept, but one that can overwhelm many other components of a population model. Diseases and environmental contaminants can inflict indirect as well as direct mortality and can reduce reproduction. They interact with numerous other variables in complex and yet unknown ways. Recent evidence of a wintering-ground effect on subsequent recruitment provides one avenue for modeling phenomena occurring at different times of the year. Finally, the role of heterogeneity among individuals is widely acknowledged but not fully appreciated. We illustrate with an example the importance of heterogenicity to population processes, including compensatory mortality.
Publication type Book chapter
Publication Subtype Book Chapter
Title Some considerations in modeling the mallard life cycle
Year Published 1988
Language English
Publisher University of Minnesota Press
Publisher location Minneapolis, MN
Contributing office(s) Patuxent Wildlife Research Center
Description xx, 624
Larger Work Type Book
Larger Work Subtype Other Government Series
Larger Work Title Waterfowl in Winter
First page 9
Last page 20
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