Ringing Station Research Articles

Increasing protandry in the spring migration of the Pied Flycatcher (Ficedula hypoleuca) in Central Europe

Sexual selection theory suggests that the degree of protandry in spring migration should increase when earlier males benefit from better mating opportunities. Western European studies failed to show differences in sex-specific arrival dates for the Pied Flycatcher. However, different climatic conditions and other constraints may affect its phenology in continental Europe. Here, we present evidence that sex-related phenological changes have occurred over the past 25 years (between 1989 and 2013) in Central Europe (Ocsa Bird Ringing Station, Hungary). The spring arrival of male flycatchers shifted to earlier dates whereas female arrival showed no change, implying an increasing degree of protandry.

Relationship between vegetation structure and abundance of Great-spotted Woodpeckers (Dendrocopos major) in a mosaic habitat

AbstractThis study was made in a postglacial relic bog in the Ócsa Protected Landscape Area in Hungary. Secondary succession of vegetation began after peat extraction and a grove-like forest evolved. Among the eight woodpecker species that occur in this area, the Great-spotted Woodpecker is the most abundant with the largest amount of data, it is for this reason we chose this species to study. The aims of this work were to detect changes in the abundance of the study species in relation to forest succession; to examine the seasonal patterns of these changes in abundance, and to identify any relationship between the height of the trees near the nets and the number of captured birds. We used the data from 1411 mist-netted Great-spotted Woodpeckers (1984- 2010), which were captured at the Ócsa Bird Ringing Station (120 standard mist nets). The assessment of forest succession rates were based on aerial photos (1979-2010). We measured the height of the vegetation, at 12 points, near each 12 m long net. Population growth of Great-spotted Woodpeckers was significantly correlated with the rate of afforestation. The majority of birds occurred only during the dispersal period. The pattern of the captures correlated well with the vegetation structure, not just with height, but also with vegetation quality as well

Burullus Ringing Station (N Egypt) – Ringing Results and Seasonal Bird Migration Dynamics in 2005-2007

ABSTRACT Zaniewicz G., Chruoeciel J. 2011. Burullus ringing station (N Egypt) - ringing results and seasonal bird migration dynamics in 2005-2007. Ring 33, 1-2: 77-87. Burullus Ringing Station is one of the several stations belonging to the SEEN organization (SE European Bird Migration Network). This station is situated close to the border of Burullus Protected Area in the northern part of Egypt and it started work in 2005. Data were collected during two spring and three autumn seasons. Birds were caught in mist-nets, which were placed mainly in reedbeds. Over 12 thousands of birds from 74 species were caught and ringed during five migratory seasons. Many of them were also tested for directional preferences in Busse’s cage.

Implementation of poka-yoke to achieve zero defects in an assembly line of a limited company

This paper aims at achieving zero defects in a starter assembly line by the implementation of poka-yoke technique. The study of the operations of starter assembly line with the help of cause and effect diagram revealed that there was a problem in stop ring and retainer assembly station. Then poka-yoke is implemented for correct sequence and complete pressing operation of stop ring and retainer assembly. With the implementation of poka-yoke, no defects were produced in the starter assembly line. No manual intervention was needed in the assembly. A good process quality was achieved. A check for effectiveness was done for a sample of 500 pieces and in all the samples complete pressing of the retainer and stop ring assembly was achieved. All the components were found to be good in the performance test. Finally, after implementation manpower was saved of 50% and cost was saved up-to 25%.

High-rate (1 Hz to 20 Hz) GPS coseismic dynamic displacements carried out during the Emilia 2012 seismic sequence

<p>In May-July 2012, Emilia Romagna (northern Italy) was struck by a significant seismic sequence, which was characterized by two moderate-magnitude earthquakes: a Ml 5.9 event on May 20, 2012, at 02:03:53 UTC, and a Ml 5.8 event on May 29, 2012, at 07:00:03 UTC, about 12 km to the west of the first mainshock. The earthquake sequence produced a total of 20 casualties and severe and widespread damage, mainly to historical and commercial buildings. A detailed description of the seismic sequence can be found in Sco-gnamiglio et al. [2012, this volume]. The largest of the earthquake static displacements were recorded by tens of continuous global positioning system (cGPS) stations, as described in Serpelloni et al. [2012, this volume]. Most of these stations were operating with a sampling frequency of 1 Hz, and they belonged to scientific or commercial networks: RING (http://ring.gm.ingv.it); ITALPOS (http://smartnet.leica-geosystems.it); GeoTop (http://www.netgeo.it); Fondazione Geometri Emilia Romagna (http://www.gpsemiliaromagna.it; Lombardia [http://www.gpslombardia.it); and Veneto (http://147.162.229.63). Some hours after the first mainshock, the sampling frequency of the near-field RING stations (SBPO and MODE) were switched to 20 Hz, thus recording the coseismic displacements produced by the May 29, 2012, earthquake at higher frequency. This sampling frequency was previously used for the detection of coseismic dynamic displacements only for the Mw 9 Tohoku-Oki 2011 event [Colosimo et al. 2011b]. Thus, the 20-Hz-sampling displacements for the Tohoku-Oki 2011 earthquake and the May 29, 2012, Emilia event might represent important recordings to investigate coseismic contributions at frequencies higher than 1 Hz with GPS. In the present study, after the description of the high-rate GPS (HRGPS) data analysis, we will show and compare the preliminary results. Then, for the two mainshocks, we will compare the displacements recorded by the HRGPS (1 Hz up to 20 Hz) and the strong-motion time histories (100 Hz) at MODE, where the different instruments were approximately co-located (Figure 1, inset, relative distance of ca. 90 m). […]</p>

Demography of European Honey BuzzardsPernis apivorus

We set out to explore whether changes in fecundity and survival (or both) of European Honey Buzzards were associated with trends observed in The Netherlands. We used standardized monitoring data on numbers and reproduction from several study plots in The Netherlands over the period of 1974–2005. Survival estimates were based on recoveries of Honey Buzzards ringed throughout Europe (collated by EURING and individual ringing stations). Based on these values we computed the annual population growth rate with a time invariant population model, and used elasticity analysis to detect the parameter with the strongest influence on growth rate. Lambda was smaller than 1, suggesting a population decline, but confidence intervals around lambda were relatively wide. Elasticity of adult survival was much higher than of any other life history parameter, indicating that adult survival has potentially the greatest impact on annual population growth. Because data on reproduction varied strongly we estimated a 95% confiden...

New species and host association records for the Hungarian avian louse fauna (Insecta: Phthiraptera)

AbstractA recently published checklist of Hungarian louse fauna (Insecta: Phthiraptera) listed 279 species and subspecies which have been recorded in Hungary. According to that checklist several louse species still await detection in Hungary, and many of the previously reported louse species have not been found on all expected host species yet. Our faunistical survey on avian lice started in 2005 at Ócsa Bird Ringing Station, resulting hundreds of ectoparasite samples collected from over 70 bird species. Additionally, our louse collection has grown by collecting samples in other research projects focusing on various bird species, and by sampling cadavers before taxidermy in the Bird Collection of the Hungarian Natural History Museum. As the results of a preliminary exploration of this collection, we list 20 louse species which are new to the Hungarian fauna, as well as the first Hungarian records of 17 host-parasite associations. We also found 3 louse-bird association records new for the World fauna.

Change in migration phenology and biometrics of two conspecific Sylvia species in Hungary

The distribution area and the timing of migration of many bird species have recently changed, presumably due to climatic factors. In our study, we estimated the effect of climate change on migration phenology and biometrics of two sister Sylvia species: the medium-distance migrant Blackcap (Sylvia atricapilla) and the long-distance migrant Garden Warbler (Sylvia borin). We used the data of 52,440 Blackcaps and 6,943 Garden Warblers caught and ringed at the Ocsa Bird Ringing Station (47°15′N, 19°15′E) in Hungary between 1984 and 2008. The age and in case of Blackcaps the sex groups were handled separately. The timing of the spring migration of Garden Warblers shifted earlier, whereas it did not change in Blackcaps during the study period. We presume—in accordance with other observations concerning Blackcaps in West-Europe—that it probably has changed earlier than the 1980s. The timing of autumn migration shifted about 2 weeks later in all age and sex groups of Blackcaps. We found significant correlation in the timing of autumn migration of sex groups, the sign of the differences between the timing of males and females changed. Juvenile Garden Warblers shifted their autumn migration 13 days later, but adults did not. Mean body mass decreased while mean wing length increased suggesting a change in the composition of the trans-migrant population. We hypothesise that due to climate change the breeding range of these species expanded northwards, producing an increased ratio of long-winged northern individuals in the trans-migrant populations.

Body mass and fat score changes in recaptured birds during the autumn migration at the Cernek ringing station in Turkey

Body mass and fat score changes in recaptured birds during the autumn migration at the Cernek ringing station in Turkey The fat level and the body mass of recaptured birds ringed at the Cernek Ringing Station are presented in this study. Data from autumns of 2003-2005 were analysed. Species of different migratory and feeding habits are compared. A total of 351 recaptures of the Blackcap (Sylvia atricapilla), Garden Warbler (S. borin), Reed Warbler (Acrocephalus scirpaceus), Marsh Warbler (A. palustris) and Cetti's Warbler (Cettia cetti) were mist-netted and handled according to the South-East European Bird Migration Network (SEEN) standards. The mean weight changes of the Reed Warbler and Marsh Warbler and those of the Blackcap and Garden Warbler were similar within each genus but higher in Sylvia spp. as compared to Acrocephalus spp. The recapture rate was the highest in the Cetti's Warbler but the mean weight increase was the lowest as this is essentially a sedentary species. The stopover duration differed among the species. The mean stopover length was similar within Acrocephalus spp. (8.5 days in the Reed Warbler, 6.4 days in the Marsh Warbler) and Sylvia spp. (5.6 days in the Blackcap, 5.4 days in the Garden Warbler) and different in the Cetti's Warbler (16.6 days). Results indicate that migratory birds use Cernek location as refuelling station during the autumn migration and their fat level and body mass increase, but differ according to feeding and migrating habits.

Between-species correlations in the number of migrants at Ulmethöchi (Switzerland)

We analysed the number of autumn migrants at a bird ringing station over 41 years in the Jura mountains of Switzerland. For 12 irruptive or potentially irruptive bird species, the correlations between their numbers per year were calculated and the species were clustered accordingly. We found high correlations in the number of migrants between the Coal Tit Periparus ater, Great Tit Parus major and Blue Tit Cyanistes caeruleus. Most correlations of passage number between species pairs changed dramatically over time. Only Blue Tit and Coal Tit showed continuously high correlation in this respect. The variation and changes over time in between-species correlations in the number of migrants needs more attention.

Stopover of Robins (Erithacus rubecula) On Autumn Migration Through the Polish Baltic Coast

Stopover of Robins (Erithacus rubecula) On Autumn Migration Through the Polish Baltic Coast Data were collected during autumn migration at three ringing stations of the Operation Baltic: Bukowo-Kopań, Mierzeja Wiślana and Hel. Apart from different localization at the Polish Baltic coast, these places differ also in topography and habitat. Only data from years with the highest number of caught birds were used in the analyses, thus altogether the data on more than 25 500 ringed Robins and 1700 retraps were included. Based on migration dynamics graphs and number of retraps, a stopover index was calculated. Next, the index values were compared between days with a high and low number of caught birds and also between different fat categories. Differences between birds caught once and retraps were shown in relation to daily activity, age structure and fat level. Additionally changes in weight and fat level between first and last control in retraps were considered. At Mierzeja Wiślana and Hel the stopover index decreased in the course of autumn season in contrast to Bukowo-Kopań where an increasing trend was observed. At Bukowo-Kopań more birds decided to stopover than at Mierzeja Wiślana and Hel but at Mierzeja Wiślana Robins stayed longer than at other stations. Moreover, at Mierzeja Wiślana a half of departing retraps increased in fat level while at the other stations only ca 20% of retraps. Our results showed that in Robins the weak body condition is a decisive factor to stopover after crossing the sea. Differentiation in food resources and competition between individuals had an effect on the stopover index. Stopover duration at different ringing stations can depend on distance which birds cover before landing at the coast.

Dicle Ringing Station (Se Turkey) - Ringing Results and Seasonal Bird Migration Dynamics in 2003-2005

Dicle Ringing Station (Se Turkey) - Ringing Results and Seasonal Bird Migration Dynamics in 2003-2005 Dicle Ringing Station is a field station in the campus of Dicle University, Diyarbakır (SE Turkey), and has been working since 2003. From that year it also belongs to the SEEN organization (SE European Bird Migration Network). The paper includes information collected during three autumn and one spring seasons. Totally, 5393 birds were ringed. Detailed information about study site and ringing results are reported in the paper.

Ringing Results of the Carpatica Ringing Station (S Poland) in 1998-2005

Ringing Results of the Carpatica Ringing Station (S Poland) in 1998-2005 The Carpatica ringing station is located at Myscowa, in the centre of the Beskid Niski Mountains, in southern Poland. The ringing site has been operating since 1998 and since 2000 it has belonged to the SEEN (SE European Bird Migration Network) — an international organization for institutions that study bird migration. The Carpatica ringing station is situated on the south-eastern migration flyway crossing the Carpathian Mountains. Totally, 29 869 birds out of 92 different species, mainly passerines were ringed in 1998-2005. Station location and biotopes, species composition of captured birds, field work methods and results are described in the paper.

Synchronisation of the Autumn Mass Migration of Passerines: a Case of RobinsErithacus rubecula

The pattern of autumn migration of the Robin was studied through an analysis of daily dynamics for the birds caught in the years 1984-1997 at four ringing stations (two on the Baltic coast and two in inland Poland). In a given year, migration dynamics was found to be distinctly similar at all stations. It showed conspicuous consistence (± 2 days) in the dates with peak numbers. This could be explained by assuming that Robins take off at the same time across a large breeding ground, and arrive almost simultaneously at stopover sites located over extensive areas. Moreover, migration dynamics from year to year at a given station was also remarkably similar, though this phenomenon was more distinct at the inland stations than at the coastal ones. Day-to-day fluctuations in numbers were on an average the highest at the coastal station most exposed to variable weather, the lowest at the inland stations, and intermediate at the more sheltered of the coastal station. The paper discusses the extent to which such results can reflect the influence of weather conditions on passage, or else a precise internal (physiological and genetic) mechanism responsible for the timing of migration.

Reading and Riding: A Summer Language-Literacy Camp for At-Risk Adolescents

Reading and Riding: A Summer Language-Literacy Camp for At-Risk Adolescents

Cernek - a new bird ringing station in Turkey

Cernek - a new bird ringing station in Turkey A new Turkish bird ringing station - Cernek, was launched on 22 March 2002 under the auspices of the SE European Bird Migration Network (SEEN). This paper provides information about the location and biotopes of the station, methodology used in its work, species composition of captured birds and presents plans and perspectives for future research.

Saluga and Ghazal Ringing Station - a new ringing station in Egypt

Saluga and Ghazal Ringing Station - a new ringing station in Egypt On 28 August 2003 under the auspices of the SE European Bird Migration Network (SEEN) a new Egyptian Ringing Station - Saluga and Ghazal began to operate. The paper provides information about the location of the station, its habitat, methods of work and species composition of caught birds.

Intra-seasonal changes in directional preferences of Robins (Erithacus rubecula) caught on autumn migration at Bukowo-Kopań ringing Station (N Poland) in 1996

Intra-seasonal changes in directional preferences of Robins (Erithacus rubecula) caught on autumn migration at Bukowo-Kopań ringing Station (N Poland) in 1996 Data were collected in 1996 at Bukowo-Kopań ringing station situated on the southern Baltic coast. During the whole autumn migration period 2380 Robins were caught, and 445 of them were tested with Busse's method for directional behaviour. Birds' headings were grouped in four main axes: ENE-WSW, NNE-SSW, NNW-SSE and WNW-ESE. The seasonal dynamics of birds caught was divided into periods reflecting waves of migration. For each period the percentage shares of these four main axes were extrapolated into the daily numbers of birds caught. The obtained pattern consisted of four migration dynamics characterising differently heading birds. The total migration dynamics of the Robin at the station is interpreted as follows. In 1996, the intensive migration started around the middle of September with a numerous wave consisting of at least three populations. The peaks of those population waves were shifted in relation to each other in just 1-2 days, and occurred in following order: birds heading to the Apennine winter-quarter, birds heading to the most eastern wintering grounds, and birds heading to the southern parts of Western winter-quarter. The second, numerous wave consisting at least of birds heading to Mediterranean winter-quarter occurred with a peak on 26 September. In two most numerous October waves around 10 and 18 October, birds heading to the northern parts of Western migration route dominated. However, also birds heading to the Balkan (earlier) or even more eastern (later) wintering grounds formed numerous waves around those dates. The model of Robin migration is proposed, in which the wavy character of migration is generally explained by large-scale factors (like macrosynoptic weather situations, or changes in length of day). Their influence results in the most pronounced waves consisting of populations of different origin. However, the final pattern of dynamics is affected strongly by many other factors: e.g. localisation and characteristics of those populations.

Speed of autumn migration of the Blue Tit (Parus caeruleus) along the eastern and southern Baltic coast

Speed of autumn migration of the Blue Tit (Parus caeruleus) along the eastern and southern Baltic coast An analysis of the speed of autumn migration was based on 315 ringing recoveries of Blue Tits caught between 1963-1999 at 6 ringing stations along the south-eastern and southern Baltic coast. It was found that among passerines the Blue Tit is the slowest European migrant (median value - 25.8 km/day, average - 28.4 km/day), with a very low (intra- and interpopulation) variation of migration speed. No differences in migration speed were found between individuals of different age and sex and among years of different intensities of movements. The migration speeds of the Blue Tit and the Great Tit (Parus major) in different years correlated.

Avian Species Saturation at a Long-Term Ringing Station-a Never-ending Story?

The number of observed species is an index of the relative value of the site to be protected in relation to other sites. To date, most analyses pertaining to species richness have focused on breeding populations and sites. However, avian migratory bottlenecks are no less important for conservation and management purposes. Here we present an example with the use of bird ringing conducted at Eilat, Israel, between the years 1984-2000. We hypothesized that because Israel is located at the juncture of the three continents, we will have new species every year. During the 17 years, 139, 354 individuals of 268 species were ringed. The average of total birds ringed per year was 8197.3 and the average number of species was 113. Of 268 species ringed, 205 (76.5%) were passage migrants, 41 (15.3%) breeding species, and 22 (8.2%) were accidentals. We found a significantly positive correlation (r2=0.857, P=0.014) between the number of species caught each year and the number of operational net days. The number of species recorded annually correlated significantly with the number of individuals caught and the cumulative number of recorded species increased logarithmically throughout the study period. The greatest increase was recorded between the first and second years. Changes in the number of new species decreases non-significantly over the study period. Further, when the difference between the first and the second year is removed this relation is non-significant. It means that chances to catch new species for Eilat are always the same. In conclusion, a ringing station can expect to catch the largest proportion of species within the first three years of activity and then to catch two to three new species annually, i. e., at Eilat we should expect to catch 20 new species during the upcoming decade.