Abstract

Abstract The Lesser Snow Geese that nest at the McConnell River, Northwest Territories, feed heavily before arriving on the breeding grounds. During laying and early incubation, feeding declines to low levels but increases slightly during late incubation. After their eggs hatch the geese greatly increase their food intake. These changes in feeding activity are correlated with changes in the average sizes of four digestive organs (pancreas, liver, gizzard, and intestine). The large digestive organs characteristic of arriving and post-hatch geese are due to hyperphagia. Previously reported situations that produced decreased size of avian digestive organs did not account for that condition in incubating geese. The decrease in size of digestive organs during incubation is claimed to be innate; its evolution is discussed.

Full Text
Paper version not known

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.