Breeding ecology and causes of nest failure in the Indian Skimmer Rynchops albicollis

Abstract

ABSTRACTCapsule: The breeding success of the Indian Skimmer Rynchops albicollis in eastern India is significantly reduced by human activities at the breeding sites.Aim: To investigate the breeding ecology of Indian Skimmer and factors affecting breeding success along the Mahanadi River in eastern India.Methods: A total of 230 Indian Skimmer nests were monitored in 2017 and 2018. Population, breeding phenology, clutch size, egg dimensions and factors affecting breeding success rates were determined.Results: Indian Skimmers arrived at the breeding sites during January–February followed by breeding activities during March–May. On a small scale, nests were more likely to be closer to water and ground vegetation than expected by chance, probably as mitigation against hot afternoon temperatures. Hatching success rate was higher (72.27%) in 2017 and chick survival rate was higher (33.15%) in 2018. Factors that affected breeding success were flooding, nest desertion, egg collecting by humans, predation and trampling.Conclusion: The breeding success rate of Indian Skimmer could be increased by protecting the breeding sites and minimizing disturbances through community awareness.