Date of Award
8-1980
Degree Name
Master of Arts
Department
Biological Sciences
First Advisor
Dr. R. Brewer
Access Setting
Masters Thesis-Open Access
Abstract
Recent studies (Lohrl 1973i Karlsson and Nilsson 1977) have shown that there may be a relationship between nestbox size and clutch size in several passerine species. The present study was designed to determine whether nestbox size influences the clutch size and reproductive success of House Wrens (Troglodytes aedon) and to test possible cues a female might utilize to assess the size of a given nestbox. Four types of nestboxes were used in the study; they varied in floor surface from 3 inches by 3 inches to 8 inches by 8 inches. No statistically significant differences in clutch size or reproductive success were found, but this might be an artifact of a small data base. Possible differences in nest building (type of nest built, time taken to build the nest, weight of the nest, etc.) may be related to nestbox type and this in turn may influence nestbox choice in House Wrens.
Recommended Citation
Sydlik, Mary Anne, "The Possible Influence of Nestbox Size on Nesting Behavior and Reproductive Success in the House Wren (Troglodytes Aedon)" (1980). Masters Theses. 1925.
https://scholarworks.wmich.edu/masters_theses/1925