CAnMove

Different bird species rely on different flight techniques such as soaring, flapping flight, or both during migration. With the help of modern techniques of individual-based satellite tracking including GPS positioning as well as of miniature geolocators it is now possible to track even as small birds as passerines. We aim to test predictions from optimal migration theory about the variation in migration performance, daily timing and detours between seasons, sex- and age classes and between landscapes by a tracking program for selected species.
 
In this project, we will test the fundamental differences in migration performance between birds that travel mainly by soaring (raptors) or flapping flight (pigeons) or both (hobby) and between birds that travel mainly during the day (raptors, pigeons) and night (cuckoo). We will compare existing tracking data on large raptors like osprey and marsh harrier, with new data on wood pigeon (Columba palumbus), hobby (Falco subbuteo) and cuckoo (Cuculus canorus). We also plan to use 1g light-based geolocators developed by the British Antarctic Survey to record the annual journeys of individual arctic and common terns (Sterna paradisaea) and (Sterna hirundo).
 
In collaboration with Copenhagen University, we will also study red-backed shrike (Lanius collurio) migration. Their migration route is particularly interesting, since ringing data indicate that the shrikes for unknown reasons travel far to the east across the Arabian Peninsula during their spring migration from southern Africa to Scandinavia.