Molt patterns and age and sex determination of selected southeastern Cuban landbirds

Abstract

Data from a banding station at Guantanamo Bay and the examination of 830 specimens were used to study molt patterns and criteria for determination of age and sex in 15 resident species of Cuban landbirds. All 15 species undergo their prebasic molt in August to November, with a few species commencing as early as May and/or completing as late as December. This timing corresponded with that of related taxa found in North America. With few exceptions, the extent of the first prebasic molts was also comparable to those of related taxa found at northern latitudes, being partial to incomplete in all nine passerines and four of six nonpasserines. Three species showed evidence of eccentric primary molt patterns during the first prebasic molt, to be expected in birds residing in scrubby or exposed environments such as those found at Guantanamo Bay. Determination of age is possible in most Cuban landbirds based on molt limits and the shape and condition of the primary coverts and rectrices, criteria very similar to those found in North American species of related taxa.