Abstract
We tested the hypothesis that social interactions among postbreeding female Mallards (Anas platyrhynchos) induce wing molt among flock members. Half of unsuccessfully nesting females were placed in a flock after breeding (FF group) and half were visually isolated from other ducks in individual pens (IF group). There was no difference in date of last incubation between the two treatment groups (t = 0.0, P = 1.0). On average, FF Mallards molted their remiges 14 days earlier (t = 2.21, P = 0.04) and were more synchronous among individuals than were IF birds. We suggest that onset of wing molt is stimulated by early-molting female ducks that induce other flock members to initiate wing molt. The resultant early, synchronous wing molt among members of postbreeding flocks may provide survival advantages by reducing the likelihood of predation on flightless ducks and allowing more time to prepare for fall migration.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
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 callDisclaimer: 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.
