Some considerations in modeling the mallard life cycle
Edited by: M.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 heterogeneity to population processes, including compensatory mortality.
Suggested Citation
Johnson, D.H., Nichols, J., Conroy, M., Cowardin, L., 1988, Some considerations in modeling the mallard life cycle, chap. of Waterfowl in winter, p. 9-20 [624 pp.].
| 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) | Northern Prairie Wildlife Research Center |
| Description | p. 9-20 [624 pp.] |
| Larger Work Type | Book |
| Larger Work Subtype | Other Government Series |
| Larger Work Title | Waterfowl in winter |