Isotopic Characterization of Flight Feathers in Two Pelagic Seabirds: Sampling Strategies for Ecological Studies

Abstract

Abstract. We wish to use stable-isotope analysis of flight feathers to understand the feeding behavior of pelagic seabirds, such as the Hawaiian Petrel (Pterodroma sandwichensis) and Newell's Shearwater (Puffinus auricularis newelli). Analysis of remiges is particularly informative because the sequence and timing of remex molt are often known. The initial step, reported here, is to obtain accurate isotope values from whole remiges by means of a minimally invasive protocol appropriate for live birds or museum specimens. The high variability observed in δ13C and δ15N values within a feather precludes the use of a small section of vane. We found the average range within 42 Hawaiian Petrel remiges to be 1.3‰ for both δ13C and δ15N and that within 10 Newell's Shearwater remiges to be 1.3‰ and 0.7‰ for δ13C and δ15N, respectively. The δ13C of all 52 feathers increased from tip to base, and the majority of Hawaiian Petrel feathers showed an analogous trend in δ15N. Although the average range of δD in 21 Hawaiian...